Senate Bill 246
Effective today, Nevada Senate Bill 246 revises the definition of “committee for political action” to include new threshold levels.
Entities in Nevada whose primary purpose is to affect outcomes of elections are now defined as those with more than $1,500 in contributions or expenditures in a calendar year. Entities whose primary purpose is not to affect outcomes of elections have a $5,000 calendar year threshold. Committees must register with the Nevada secretary of state no later than seven days after qualifying under the revised definition.
The changes in the bill were modeled on similar statutes previously enacted by the state of Maine.
September 30, 2013 •
Monday News Roundup
Let’s start off the week with these lobbying, campaign finance, and ethics news articles:
Lobbying
California: “Ex-lobbyist joins councilman’s staff and questions follow” by David Zahniser in the Los Angeles Times.
Kentucky: “Chandler moves into role as lobbyist in Ky.” by The Associated Press in WTVQ ABC News.
West Virginia: “Lobbyists spend $39k wining, dining WV officials” by The Associated Press in the Herald-Dispatch.
Campaign Finance
Arizona: “GOP: More campaign contributions should be allowed” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Sun.
New Hampshire: “How one state representative raised $1,600 for his campaign — in bitcoins” by Brian Fung in The Washington Post.
Ohio: “Common Cause Ohio questions state’s lobbying disclosures” by Marc Kovac in the Daily Jeffersonian.
Vermont: “Vt. Supreme Court says Democratic-leaning organization didn’t register as political group” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
Ethics
“Harvey Whittemore to be sentenced Monday for campaign finance scheme” by Jeff German in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Arkansas: “Some lawmakers suggest including ethics reform in special session” by Rob Moritz in Arkansas News.
Florida: “Inspector General: West Palm Beach should not have repaid Mitchell in ethics probe” by Eliot Kleinberg in the Palm Beach Post.
North Carolina: “Former NC auditor says he will leave State Ethics Commission after questions over DHHS role” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
State Legislatures
Illinois: “In blow to Gov. Quinn, judge rules state lawmakers must be paid” by Dave McKinney, Jon Seidel And Mitch Dudek in the Chicago Sun Times.
Oregon: “Oregon legislators return for special session” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.
Oregon: “Anxiety high as special session looms” by Hannah Hoffman in the Statesman Journal.
Pennsylvania: “Legislators taking leave and missing the vote” by Angela Couloumbis in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Social Media
New York: “NYC Mayoral Race Shows ‘Shareable Graphics Are…The New Black’ in Digital Campaigning” by Miranda Neubauer in TechPresident.
September 27, 2013 •
News You Can Use Digest – September 27, 2013
Here are highlights from the latest edition of News You Can Use:
National:
Manufacturing Arm to Advise on Lobbying Agencies, States
Politico – Byron Tau and Andrea Drusch | Published: 9/26/2013
The National Association of Manufacturers has established the Center for Legal Action to give its members a voice in legal debates at the federal, state, and local levels. The center is a response to gridlock in Washington, D.C. and reflects the fact that legal fights elsewhere play a major role in the development of rules and regulations.
Some Public Companies Are Divulging More Details about Their Political Contributions
Washington Post – Dina ElBoghdady | Published: 9/25/2013
Even as some groups fight efforts to make their donors public, a growing number of companies are coming forward on their own to disclose their contributions to trade associations and other nonprofit organizations that legally can keep their hidden, according to a study.
Federal:
Federal Election Commission Gets New Blood
The Center for Public Integrity – Dave Levinthal | Published: 9/23/2013
The U.S. Senate confirmed President Barack Obama’s two nominees to the FEC, giving the panel its first new members since the George W. Bush administration. Democrat Ann Ravel and Republican Lee Goodman were approved by unanimous consent in a brief voice vote. The appointments will restore the six-member commission to full strength.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arizona – Campaign Finance Law Throws Twist at Candidates
San Francisco Chronicle; Associated Press – | Published: 9/23/2013
The Arizona secretary of state’s office said under a new law, candidates need to have separate campaign finance committees for the primary and general elections. Combined with a $2,000 limit on transfers between committees, the requirement means candidates may have to commit their funds to one election or the other without yet knowing what the political landscape will look like.
California – California Political Watchdog Sets Sights on Major Cases
Sacramento Bee – Christopher Cadelago | Published: 9/22/2013
The California Fair Political Practices Commission historically has pursued investigations based on formal complaints. But under the leadership of Chairperson Ann Ravel and her chief enforcer, Gary Winuk, the agency has become more proactive, significantly increasing the number of inquiries it initiates.
California – State’s New Rule: Campaigns must say when they pay for Web posts
Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy | Published: 9/19/2013
Bloggers and others who are paid to post political messages online are subject to new disclosure rules under regulations approved by the California Fair Political Practices Commission. The agency acted out of concern the public might be deceived into thinking paid content on blogs that praises or criticizes a candidate is objective political commentary.
Florida – Lobbying Association Weighs into Gaetz Push to Start Auditing Their Pay
Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 9/19/2013
As a legislative panel prepares to discuss auditing lobbyists’ compensation, the association that represents Florida’s lobbyists wants to make sure they have a say in the process. A letter signed by the Florida Professional Lobbyist Association’s board of directors asks to make recommendations to lawmakers on how to conduct the audits.
Georgia – Ethics Commission Head Received Pay Increases
Macon Telegraph; Associated Press – | Published: 9/20/2013
The annual salary of the Georgia ethics commission’s executive secretary, Holly LaBerge, increased from $85,000 when she was hired in September 2011 to $100,000 by June 2013, despite the agency saying it had to cut costs. By comparison, LaBerge’s predecessor, Stacey Kalberman, quit after absorbing a 30 percent pay cut and later filed a lawsuit alleging she was punished for aggressively pursuing an investigation involving Gov. Nathan Deal.
New York – N.Y. Ethics Panel Toughens Rules to Shield Political Donors
The Journal News – Joseph Spector | Published: 9/24/2013
The New York Joint Commission on Public Ethics fine-tuned its process for granting exemptions from disclosing financing sources for nonprofit organizations and agreed to place exemption applications online for public view. The changes come as the commission says it is trying to balance public disclosure of groups’ major contributors with the need to protect donors’ privacy to keep them from harm.
Cleveland Plain Dealer – James McCarty | Published: 9/25/2013
A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Benjamin Suarez, the owner of a North Canton direct-marketing firm, and company Chief Financial Officer Michael Giorgio with conspiring to funnel illegal campaign contributions to U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci and Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel. According to the FBI, Suarez and Giorgio recruited company employees and spouses to contribute to the campaigns, and then reimbursed them through payments disguised first as salary and later as profit sharing.
Ohio – Group Calls for Tougher Lobbyist Disclosures
Columbus Dispatch – Jim Siegel and Robert Higgs (Northeast Ohio Media Group) | Published: 9/19/2013
As Ohio’s natural gas industry has boomed, so have campaign contributions from the industry. That spending, coupled with a lack of reporting requirements for compensation paid to lobbyists should raise questions with voters about transparency and just who has access to government, said Ohio Common Cause.
Virginia – Ethics Issue Rises to Prominence in Va. Legislative Races
Washington Post – Antonio Olivo | Published: 9/21/2013
In a state that has long considered itself a place of clean government, the shadow of a federal probe into gifts received by Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his family is hanging over dozens of state House of Delegate races. As the campaigns for the general elections ramp up, both major parties are seeking to leverage the ethics issue for political gain, or at least keep it from hampering their chances for victory.
Washington – New Lobbyist Meal Form to Distinguish Chowder from Steak
KUOW – Austin Jenkins | Published: 9/23/2013
The Washington Public Disclosure Commission will decide at its September 26 meeting whether to update the form lobbyists use to report spending on entertainment. Media reports have noted many lobbyists do not include a per-person amount for dinners with lawmakers.
Wisconsin – Madison Passes Ordinance Forcing Stricter Campaign Spending Disclosure
Capital Times – Jack Craver | Published: 9/23/2013
The Madison Common Council approved an ordinance that will require groups making independent campaign expenditures in city elections to disclose the spending and their donors. Although the Government Accountability Board put in place a rule in 2010 that addresses such ads, the agency has not enforced the rule since it was challenged.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
September 26, 2013 •
Thursday News Roundup
Here are some great articles for today’s government relations news summary:
Lobbying
Kentucky: “Ben Chandler moves into role as lobbyist in Ky.” by The Associated Press in WYMT TV News.
New Mexico: “Ex-New Mexico official takes job despite ban on lobbying” by The Associated Press in the Santa Fe New Mexican.
Campaign Finance
“If You Thought Citizens United Was Bad, Wait for This Supreme Court Case” by Norm Ornstein in The Atlantic.
“GOP lawyer launches political donation refund group” by Michael Beckel in The Center for Public Integrity.
Arizona: “Donor fatigue: Higher contribution limits don’t translate into avalanche of cash” by Jeremy Duda and Luige del Puerto in Arizona Capitol Times.
Missouri: “Missouri campaign contributions have topped $6.7M this quarter” by Elizabeth Crisp in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Ohio: “Federal grand jury indictment charges North Canton businessman with funneling illegal campaign cash to candidates” by James F. McCarty in the Plain Dealer.
Ethics
Florida: “Florida Ethics Commission Asks For Power To Place Liens On Violators’ Property” by Jessica Palombo in WFSU News.
Ohio: “Ethics Commission finds possible conflicts of interest with JobsOhio employees” by Darrel Rowland in the Columbus Dispatch.
State Legislatures
South Dakota: “Legislature research leader resigns” by David Montgomery in the Argus Leader.
Social Media
“Twitter increases political contributions, but not from constituents, says paper” by Molly Bernhart Walker in FierceGovernmentIT.
September 25, 2013 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Here is our roundup of the latest articles on lobbying, campaign finance, ethics, and more!
Lobbying
“K Street suffers from identity crisis” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
Nevada: “Feds call for prison time for ex-Nevada lobbyist Harvey Whittemore” by Martha Bellisle in the Reno Gazette-Journal.
New York: “JCOPE changes donor disclosure rules for lobbying groups” by Joseph Spector in the Star Gazette.
Canada: “Federal lobbyist watchdog launches review of industry code of conduct” by Kady O’Malley in CBC News.
Campaign Finance
“25 Regulations to Watch” by Ben Goad and Julian Hattem in The Hill.
“Washington Billionaires Staying Out Of State Politics This Year” by John Ryan in Northwest Public Radio.
New York: “Moreland panel hears testimony on enforcement, campaign funding” by Casey Seiler in the Times Union.
Ethics
“Dan Schwager to leave House Ethics panel” by John Bresnahan in Politico.
Florida: “Legislators look into questionable insurance deal” by Gary Fineout in the Daytona Beach News-Journal.
New York: “Taint of pork-barrel spending repels public corruption investigation panel” by Casey Seiler in the Times Union.
New York: “After Hints of Guilty Plea, Lawmaker Opts for Trial” by Mosi Secret.
Virginia: “Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell’s approval rating drops to new low, poll finds” by Laura Vozzella and Scott Clement in The Washington Post.
State Legislatures
Pennsylvania: “Record low approval ratings for lawmakers returning to Harrisburg” by Melissa Daniels in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Pennsylvania: “Bills to shrink size of Pa. Legislature advances in state House” by Jan Murphy in The Patriot-News.
Redistricting
Texas: “DOJ To Intervene In Texas Redistricting” by David Martin Davies in KBPS News.
September 24, 2013 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Keep up with the latest government relations news with these articles:
Lobbying
“Lobbyists cheer plan to jam Dems by linking debt hike to tax reform” by Kevin Bogardus and Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
Florida: “Lobbyist audits may be on the way — 8 years after the law was passed to do so” by Matt Dixon in the Florida Times-Union.
Washington: “New Lobbyist Meal Form To Distinguish Chowder From Steak” by Austin Jenkins on Northwest Public Radio.
Campaign finance
“The next Citizens United could affect campaign spending in the states” by Niraj Chokshi in The Washington Post.
“The End of Contribution Limits? | Rules of the Game” opinion piece by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.
Kentucky: “Kentucky disability lawyer pleads guilty to campaign-finance violation” by Bill Estep in the Herald-Leader.
Ethics
Rhode Island: “RI Ethics Commission to investigate complaint that Fox violated rules by not reporting income” by David Klepper (Associated Press) in The Republic.
Redistricting
Arizona: “Republicans file new challenge to congressional district lines” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Star.
Social Media
California: “The Buzz: FPPC approves new rules for political bloggers” by Laurel Rosenhall in the Sacramento Bee.
September 23, 2013 •
Madison, WI Passes Independent Expenditure Law
Ordinance replaces unenforced state law on local level
City Council passed an ordinance creating registration and reporting requirements for organizations involved in making independent expenditures. Organizations supporting or opposing any candidate for mayor, alderperson, or municipal judge are required to register with the city clerk upon accepting contributions made for, incurring obligations for, or making independent expenditures exceeding $25 in the aggregate during a calendar year. Such organizations are also required to file reports as required by Wisconsin Statutes.
The ordinance is meant to take the place of a provision no longer enforced by the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board (GAB) after it reached a settlement in a suit filed by two advocacy groups. As such, the ordinance is ripe for challenge on the same grounds as the original GAB rule was challenged.
Photo of the Madison skyline by Patrick43470 on Wikimedia Commons.
September 23, 2013 •
Monday News Roundup
Let’s start off the week with these lobbying, campaign finance, and ethics news articles:
Lobbying
California: “California political watchdog sets sights on major cases” by Christopher Cadelago in The Sacramento Bee.
Florida: “Lobbying group wants a say in auditing process” by Rochelle Koff in Miami Herald’s Naked Politics blog.
Utah: “Las Vegas business leaders broaden approach to DC lobbying” by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Campaign Finance
“Supreme Court may strike new blow to campaign funding laws” by David G. Savage in the Los Angeles Times.
Arizona: “Campaign finance law throws twist at candidates” by The Associated Press in KSAZ Fox10 News.
Arkansas: “Ethics panel: Candidate’s corporation can’t provide free office space” by John Lyon in the Arkansas News.
Delaware: “Illegal donations to Jack Markell’s 2008 campaign discovered” by Maureen Milford in The News Journal.
Wisconsin: “Political Conduits: Pouring Millions Into Wisconsin Elections” by Tim Morrissey in Public News Service.
Ethics
“Senate confirms Obama’s FEC nominees” by Byron Tau in Politico.
Georgia: “Claims in ex-Ga. Ethics Commission leader’s lawsuit call agency’s independence into question” by The Associated Press in the Seymour Tribune.
Georgia: “LaBerge Gets Raise As Ethics Comm. Cuts Costs” by The Associated Press on Georgia Public Broadcasting.
State Legislatures
Florida: “Lawmakers return to Tallahassee for committee week” by Michael Van Sickler in the Miami Herald.
September 20, 2013 •
New Municipalities Update – September 20, 2013
In a continuing effort to better serve the needs of its clients, State and Federal Communications, Inc. is expanding coverage of laws and regulations in more municipalities.
State and Federal Communications, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of two more municipalities to its website. Naperville, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago with a population of 143,684, has been added to the Lobbying Laws, Political Contributions, and Procurement Lobbying publications. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada’s capital, becomes the second municipality in the Canadian Compliance publication.
Our clients will find comprehensive, timely, and accurate information that includes: complete calendars of reporting deadlines; critical statutory citations; extensive directories of contact information; summaries of the law; detailed reference charts on goods and services contributions; highlights of every statute; copies of all required forms; and much more.
The number of municipalities and regional governments our research associates track continues to grow. We now cover more than 230 municipalities and local governments. This is part of a continuous effort to better serve the needs of our clients.
September 20, 2013 •
News You Can Use Digest – September 20, 2013
Here are highlights from the latest edition of News You Can Use:
National:
Tax Filings Hint at Extent of Koch Brothers’ Reach
New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 9/12/2013
Freedom Partners, a nonprofit with ties to Charles and David Koch, provided grants of $236 million to conservative organizations before the 2012 election. The group reflects a shift in the tax strategies the Koch operation deploys to avoid challenge from the IRS which limits how much nonprofit groups can spend to aid or defeat candidates.
Federal:
Former FEC Chairman Donald McGahn Resigns from Panel
Washington Post – Reid Wilson | Published: 9/17/2013
Donald McGahn reigned from the FEC to return to private law practice at Patton Boggs. McGahn, a Republican, clashed frequently with Democrats as he helped push a conservative interpretation of campaign finance laws and persistent skepticism about government oversight of campaigns. His term expired in 2009, but it was not until this year that a replacement was nominated amid a state of gridlock at the agency.
Red Cape Drawing Bids during Jackson Jr. Auction
BusinessWeek – Michael Tarm (Associated Press) | Published: 9/18/2013
Memorabilia once owned by former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D-Ill.) is being auctioned off by the U.S. Marshals after his guilty plea in a corruption case. A dozen items including autographed Bruce Lee and Michael Jackson collectibles and furs formerly belonging to Jackson went up for auction, with the bidding ending September 26. Whatever money is generated will be subtracted from the $750,000 he owes the government.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arizona – Commission Challenges Campaign Spending Hikes
Arizona Daily Sun – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 9/19/2013
The Arizona Citizens Clean Election Commission believes Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Mark Brain erred in concluding state lawmakers are free to reset campaign contribution limits. The commission asked the Court of Appeals to overturn Brain’s ruling that allowed the higher caps to take effect on September 13. The appellate judges agreed to consider the request on October 9.
California – Campaign Finance Bills Fare Poorly in California Legislature
Los Angeles Times – Chris Megerian and Melanie Mason | Published: 9/17/2013
Bills that would have increased the power of the Fair Political Practices Commission, increased fines for violations, and forced greater disclosure of donors, among other measures, all stalled in the California Legislature. It remains to be seen whether new campaign finance rules could be put in place before next year’s June primary or even the November general election.
Florida – After Questions, Gov. Rick Scott Cancels $25,000 Alligator Hunt Fundraiser
Tampa Bay Times – Steve Bousquet | Published: 9/11/2013
Gov. Rick Scott has called off an alligator hunting trip to raise funds for his 2014 re-election campaign. Golfing weekends, concerts, and deep-sea fishing fundraisers are common in Florida politics, but a gator hunt was such an anomaly that it made major news among bloggers and political Web sites.
Georgia – Clock Running Out on Free Football Tickets for Politicians
Marietta Daily Journal – Ray Henry (Associated Press) | Published: 9/15/2013
A new law taking effect on January 1 bans lobbyists from giving Georgia officials free college football tickets. Disclosure reports show lobbyists have given politicians almost $1,400 in football tickets and related entertainment since the start of the season in late August. Last year, registered lobbyists shelled out more than $14,000 in tickets and perks at the games.
Indiana – Indiana Utility Regulators, under Pressure, Say They Won’t Take Industry Money to Fund Conference
Indianapolis Star – John Russell | Published: 9/12/2013
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission dropped a plan to seek money from utility trade groups to help pay for a conference of energy regulators from 14 states despite gaining clearance from the state Ethics Commission. Leaders of consumer and environmental groups had objected to the fundraising, saying it presented conflicts-of-interest for the state panel that approves electricity and natural gas rates to ask the utility industry for money.
Missouri – Rep. Penny Hubbard Provided Key Vote for Two Overrides; Son Got Lobbying Jobs
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 9/13/2013
Missouri Rep. Penny Hubbard provided key votes to help override vetoes of bills on which her son had recently been hired as a lobbyist. In one instance, Hubbard had initially voted against a bill limiting lawsuits against the Doe Run Co. But she joined the Republican majority in overriding Gov. Jay Nixon’s veto. One day earlier, her son had gotten a lobbying job with Doe Run.
Montana – Federal Judge Says Montana’s Campaign Disclosure Requirement Is Constitutional
Washington Post – Matt Goras (Associated Press) | Published: 9/17/2013
U.S. District Court Judge Dana Christensen ruled Montana’s requirement that political committees disclose their campaign spending is constitutional. Christensen wrote the public’s right to know who is financing campaigns outweighs the minimal burden imposed on committees required to report the information.
Pennsylvania – Pa. Capitol Portraits Display Plenty of Conviction
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Kate Giammarise | Published: 9/16/2013
The portraits of past House and Senate leaders lining the Capitol’s hallways include several former Pennsylvania legislators now in prison on a variety of corruption-related charges. Despite the resemblance to a rogues’ gallery in some places, the paintings likely are not going anywhere.
Texas – DeLay Conviction Overturned
Houston Chronicle – Mike Snyder and Patricia Kilday Hart | Published: 9/19/2013
An appeals court threw out the criminal conviction of former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, saying there was insufficient evidence for a jury in 2010 to have found him guilty of money laundering and conspiracy for helping illegally funnel corporate money to Texas candidates in 2002. Delay was sentenced to three years in prison, but his sentence was on hold while his case made its way through the appellate process.
Virginia – Former Chef Pleads No Contest to Stealing Food from Va. Governor’s Mansion
Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman and Laura Vozzella | Published: 9/19/2013
Todd Schneider, the former chef at the Virginia governor’s mansion, pleaded no contest to reduced charges that he stole food from the first family’s kitchen and was ordered to repay the state $2,300, resolving the dispute that sparked a political and legal crisis for Gov. Robert McDonnell, and entangled state Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, the Republican candidate for governor.
Washington – Public Disclosure Commission Hacked
Tacoma News Tribune – Rachel LaCorte (Associated Press) | Published: 9/18/2013
The Washington Public Disclosure Commission’s (PDC) network was breached earlier in September, though officials said no information was compromised. Michael Smith, the PDC’s chief technology officer, said passwords have been changed and the agency has been scanning its sites looking for potential points of vulnerability.
State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.
News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.
September 17, 2013 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Keep up with the latest government relations news with these articles:
Lobbying
Maryland: “Fresh out of Md. Senate, Garagiola joins law firm with major Annapolis lobbying presence” by John Wagner in The Washington Post.
Wisconsin: “Spending on lobbying down in Wisconsin as unions continue to reel from Act 10” by Jack Craver in The Capital Times.
Campaign Finance
“$1 million campaign donations: Coming soon?” by Byron Tau in Politico.
“It’s Time To End Our Failed Affair With Campaign Finance Laws” op/ed by Paul Sherman in Forbes.
“PACs spent more at state level than on federal campaigns” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.
“FEC Disclosure Takes a Hit in Nonelection Years” by Tony Raymond in Politico’s Moneyline.
California: “Campaign finance bills fare poorly in California Legislature” by Chris Megerian and Melanie Mason in the Los Angeles Times.
North Carolina: “Dome: GOP candidates received most PAC money in 2011-12” by Lynn Bonner and Rob Christensen in the News & Observer.
Ethics
Louisiana: “Ex-La. lawmaker asks to remain free on bond” by The Associated Press in the Baton Rouge Advocate.
New York: “Oops. Ethics board leader forgot to renew his law license” by Martha Neil in the ABA Journal.
Washington: “Spokane mayor proposes city ethics ‘upgrade’” by Nicholas Deshais in The Spokesman-Review.
State Legislatures
Oregon: “Governor pushing special session” by Hannah Hoffman in the Statesman Journal.
Elections
Florida: “Fla. Elections Commission Wants Garnishment Power” by Ryan Benk on WFSU News.
New Jersey: “N.J. can continue to use electronic voting machines, court rules” by The Associated Press in the Star-Ledger.
Pennsylvania: “Special election date set for the 78th state House district seat” by Jan Murphy in the Patriot-News.
September 16, 2013 •
Monday News Roundup
Let’s start off the week with these lobbying, campaign finance, and ethics news articles:
Lobbying
“Senior Cornyn counsel joins McBee Strategic” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
Minnesota: “Lobbyists spend most time, money lobbying mining bill in Wisconsin Legislature” by Scott Bauer (Associated Press) in the Star Tribune.
Campaign Finance
“Next big case on campaign contribution limits likely depends on chief justice’s vote” by Debra Cassens Weiss in ABA Journal.
“Bachmann Hires ‘Fixer’ for Campaign Money Troubles” by Emily Pierce and Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.
“Report: Boehner Has Campaign Finance Troubles” by Matt Fuller in Roll Call.
Delaware: “Special prosecutor probes Gov. Jack Markell’s 2008 campaign” by Maureen Milford in the News Journal.
Pennsylvania: “U.S. subpoenas records of five Phila. Judges” by Craig R. McCoy, Mark Fazlollah, and Dylan Purcell in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Rhode Island: “R.I. Board of Elections owed more than $1.4 million in campaign fines” by Philip Marcelo in the Providence Journal.
Ethics
Florida: “Ethics panel to review Fla. Gov. finances” by The Associated Press in the South Florida Times.
Pennslvania: “Ethics panel asked to review promotion of AG’s sister” by John Finnerty in the Tribune-Democrat.
Elections
California: “Voting Rights Act leading California cities to dump at-large elections” by Jean Merl in the Los Angeles Times.
September 13, 2013 •
Political Contributions Limits Increase in Arizona
No Aggregate Contribution Limitations
A new law in Arizona raising the limits of political contributions to candidates took effect today. Individuals and noncertified political committees will now be able to give $2,000 to candidates running for legislative and statewide offices who do not participate in the state’s Citizens Clean Elections Act campaign financing system. Contributions made to candidates running for local office may be made in amounts up to $2,500. Contribution limits by committees certified by the secretary of state have also been increased.
Additionally, the new law removes aggregate contribution limitations for individuals and some political committees.
Meanwhile, a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the new law, which was brought by the Arizona Citizens Clean Elections Commission and others from the state, is pending in Maricopa County Superior Court.
September 13, 2013 •
News You Can Use Digest – September 13, 2013
Here are highlights from the latest edition of News You Can Use:
Federal:
Firm Asks for Disclaimer Exemption for Mobile Political Advertising
Huffington Post – Paul Blumenthal | Published: 9/11/2013
A digital media firm is asking the FEC to exempt mobile ads from the traditional disclosure statements that apply to political ads. Revolution Messaging said most ads produced for the mobile platforms do not have enough pixels to reasonably include more than a dozen words required to identify who paid for the spot. The firm said disclosures would take up more than 40 percent of the available space for a mobile advertisement.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arizona – Opponents Go to Court to Stop Higher Campaign Limits
Arizona Daily Sun – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 9/11/2013
A judge is considering whether to block a new Arizona law increasing limits on campaign contributions. The Citizens Clean Elections Commission contends the statute violates constitutional restrictions on changing voter-approved laws. Under the law, which takes effect on September 13, the cap on some donations would rise to $4,000.
California – Hansen Agrees to $50,000 Fine, Says He Doesn’t Want His Signatures Used in Anti-Arena Effort
Sacramento Bee – Ryan Lillis | Published: 9/9/2013
Hedge-fund manager Chris Hansen and two political consultants have agreed to pay a $50,000 fine for failing to disclose a campaign contribution to a group seeking to block a new Sacramento sports arena. Hansen was accused of making an anonymous $100,000 donation in June to a signature-gathering effort to require a citywide vote on public subsidies for sports facilities.
California – Three Fined for Covert Lobbying in California
Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 9/9/2013
Three partners in a public affairs firm will pay fines for trying to influence state government decisions without registering as lobbyists. The Fair Political Practices Commission accused the employees of California Strategies of crossing “the line which separates policy consultants from lobbyists.” The settlement with Jason Kinney, Rusty Areias, and Winston Hickox requires all three to register as lobbyists and, along with their firm, pay a combined fine of $40,500.
District of Columbia – D.C. Executive Linked to Secret 2008 aid to Hillary Clinton
Washington Post – Ann Marimow and Philip Rucker | Published: 9/12/2013
Federal prosecutors say marketing executive Troy White received $600,000 in illicit funds to do unsolicited campaign work for Hillary Clinton in the 2008 presidential election. White pleaded guilty for failing to file tax returns reflecting the amount his company was paid. Court documents outlined an elaborate scheme and said White worked with District of Columbia businessperson Jeffrey Thompson to help Clinton during several primaries.
Florida – Execution Rescheduled to Accommodate Pam Bondi Fundraiser
Tampa Bay Times – Adam Smith | Published: 9/9/2013
Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi persuaded Gov. Rick Scott to postpone an execution because it conflicted with her campaign fundraising reception. Shortly before a scheduled execution, the state attorney general typically phones the governor to inform him or her there is no legal basis for delay. After Scott had rescheduled the execution for September 10, the date of Bondi’s “hometown campaign kickoff,” her office asked that it be postponed; the new date is October 1.
Florida – Senate Prez Wants to Start Auditing Lobbying Reports
Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 9/9/2013
Florida Senate President Don Gaetz wants the Legislature to make good on a never-enforced requirement that lobbying firms be subjected to random audits. He said he had asked the Senate’s general counsel to work with the House to determine how to kick-start the audits. Gaetz said the main holdup may be whether the Legislature has budget authority to begin the audits, or whether it would have to wait until the next fiscal year to launch them.
Indiana – Should Indiana Regulators Raise Money from Utility Trade Groups to Pay for Conference?
Indianapolis Star – John Russell | Published: 9/11/2013
The state ethics agency approved a request from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to solicit donations from utility trade groups to fund a conference of regulators from 14 states to be held in Indianapolis. Watchdogs say such a move could give utility groups a chance to curry favor with regulators, who make decisions on whether companies can raise rates or build new plants.
Missouri – Missouri House Speaker’s Side Business Raises Ethical Issues
Kansas City Star – Jason Hancock | Published: 9/6/2013
In addition to his job as a legislator and his position with a law firm, state House Speaker Tim Jones also earns money from the Missouri Freedom Alliance. Jones has offered conflicting explanations of what type of work the group does. First, he said it was legal consulting on basic legislative process. Jones later said it had nothing to do with legislative issues and instead focused on private legal matters.
New Jersey – Christie Vetoes Bill to Move General Election to October
Newark Star Ledger – Matt Friedman | Published: 9/9/2013
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie vetoed a bill that would have moved the November 5 general election to the date of the special U.S. Senate election on October 16. Christie also vetoed a bill that would let voters who go to the polls in October to also vote early for the November election, when the governor and all 120 seats in the Legislature are being contested.
New Mexico – Donald Duck, New Mexico Lobbyist
New Mexico Watchdog – Rob Nikolewski | Published: 9/12/2013
New Mexico Watchdog found “Donald Duck” on the list of registered lobbyist in the state. According disclosure reports, Donald spent $200 on dinner for “Senator Mickey Mouse” at The Bull Ring, a popular restaurant in Santa Fe.
New York – Forgive? No, a Night to Forget for Scandal-Tarred Candidates
New York Times – Michael Grynbaum | Published: 9/11/2013
Election Day was sobering for a peculiar brand of politician that emerged in the New York City election season: the scandal-tarred scoundrel seeking a second chance. The results reflected the mood of an electorate whose tolerance for the well-trod path of political repentance may have reached its limits.
Pennsylvania – Pa. Lawmakers Eye Bills to Thwart Corruption
PhillyBurbs.com – Natasha Lindstrom | Published: 9/9/2013
More than three dozen public officials in Pennsylvania have faced corruption charges since 2007. The House State Government Committee held a recent hearing to take testimony on ways the ethics law can be strengthened in hopes of restoring public confidence in state government.
Tennessee – TN Ethics Commission Opts Not to Fine Tom Ingram
The Tennessean – Chas Sisk | Published: 9/12/2013
The Tennessee Ethics Commission voted to dismiss a complaint filed against Gov. Bill Haslam that said he failed to disclose how much he paid Tom Ingram, his former chief campaign strategist, for political advice. The commission also declined to fine Ingram on for failing to disclose a lobbying relationship with a company hoping to win permission to mine on public land.
Washington – Ethics Rules Limit Freebies
Spokane Spokesman-Review – Jim Camden | Published: 9/6/2013
With college football season just starting up, Washington’s Legislative Ethics Board clarified that state lawmakers are not permitted to accept free tickets for themselves and family members. But it is all right for a legislator to attend a game as the guest of the university president and sit in the president’s box.
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