National:

More Compliance Chiefs Get Direct Line to Boss

Wall Street Journal – Gregory Millman and Ben DiPietro | Published: 1/15/2014

Many companies have responded to more aggressive government enforcement efforts by touting their compliance programs and even raising the rank of their chief in-house watchdog. But two surveys found the compliance department’s status within a company is often ambiguous.

Top U.S. Corporations Funneled $185 Million to Political Nonprofits

The Center for Public Integrity – Michael Beckel | Published: 1/16/2014

Scores of large companies gave at least $185 million to politically active nonprofits in 2012, according to the Center for Public Integrity. Shadowy spending has targeted elections at all levels, from the White House to state party committees. The extent of financial involvement from major corporations has been unclear, as there has been only a scant paper trail to examine.

Federal:

A Loophole Allows Lawmakers to Reel in Trips and Donations

New York Times – Eric Lipton | Published: 1/19/2014

A loophole in federal law allows members of Congress to hit hot spots like the Napa Valley wine country and famed golf courses, as well as five-star hotels in Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, and Florida, for campaign fundraisers. Campaigns and leadership PACs now pay the expenses for the catering and the lawmakers’ lodging at these events – so they are not gifts – with money collected from corporate executives and lobbyists, who are still indirectly footing the bill.

Super PAC, Outside Spending Chiefs Make Big Bucks

Roll Call – Eliza Newlin Carney | Published: 1/16/2014

New disclosures reveal details about the six- and seven-figure salaries reaped by the political consultants, lawyers, fundraisers, and media buyers who ran the top super PACs and politically active nonprofits in 2012. Such groups spent more than $1 billion in the first presidential contest since the U.S. Supreme Court deregulated independent campaign spending, shattering all previous records, and political professionals cashed in.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Three Men Charged with Funneling Illegal Campaign Funds

Los Angeles Times – Tony Perry | Published: 1/22/2014

Hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal campaign contributions from a wealthy Mexican businessperson supported San Diego politicians, according to a federal complaint. A retired San Diego police officer, the owner of a Washington, D.C.-based election services business, and a lobbyist have been charged with conspiring to funnel more than $500,000 in illegal donations into recent campaigns.

Florida – Ex-Sweetwater Mayor Manuel Maroño Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison

Miami Herald – Jay Weaver | Published: 1/23/2014

Former Sweetwater Mayor Manny Maroño was sentenced three years and four months in prison for his part in a kickback scheme. Maroño and lobbyist Jorge Forte pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge that accused them of illegally splitting $60,000 for official favors and concealing those payments from the public. Both men agreed to promote a sham federal grant program for economic development that was peddled by FBI undercover agents who paid them bribes for their political support in Sweetwater.

Georgia – Ethics Commission Strips Personnel Decisions from Exec. Director

WSB – Sandra Parish | Published: 1/16/2014

Members of the Georgia ethics commission voted to give themselves the power to hire and fire employees, a duty that had been the executive director’s. In addition, the commission took no action concerning its attorney, Elisabeth Murray-Obertein, who is also a key witness in a pair of whistleblower lawsuits against the agency, after a police report said she was intoxicated at work.

Illinois – State Official Returned to Work after Nearly 30 Months of Paid Leave

Chicago Tribune – Jared Hopkins | Published: 1/21/2014

Joel Campuzano was on paid administrative leave for nearly 30 months while investigators in Illinois examined allegations he used his position to benefit himself and his family. During this time, he received seven salary increases. The state lost its fight to fire Campuzano, who returned to work in December and now makes $92,424. State Rep. Jack Franks said he supports the need for thorough investigations but agency directors should be limited in how often they can extend paid leave.

New Jersey – Political Pressure in Zimmer Allegation May Not Constitute a Crime, Legal Experts Say

Bergen Record – Herb Jackson | Published: 1/22/2014

Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer accused New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s administration of tying Superstorm Sandy aid to a politically connected development proposal. If Zimmer’s allegations are true, lawyers said the government will need to prove Christie or his administration received or expected to receive some kind of benefit in exchange for pressuring the mayor for a federal crime to have occurred. Attorneys disagreed on how clear-cut that benefit has to be, however.

Ohio – Should Politicians Have the Right to Lie? U.S. Supreme Court Could Decide in Ohio Case

Cleveland Plain Dealer – Sabrina Eaton | Published: 1/22/2014

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging an Ohio law that bars candidates and issue groups from lying in their campaigns. The Susan B. Anthony List claims the state’s criminalization of false political speech violates First Amendment rights in a similar fashion to the Stolen Valor Act, which the Supreme Court overturned in 2012. The justices ruled the law that criminalized lying about receiving military honors or decorations violated constitutional free speech rights.

Pennsylvania – Judge Strikes down Pa. Voter ID; High Court Challenge Likely

Philadelphia Inquirer; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/17/2014

A Pennsylvania judge has found the state’s voter ID law unconstitutional. According to the ruling from Commonwealth Court Judge Bernard McGinley, the requirement to present an acceptable form of identification when voting in person “unreasonably burdens the right to vote.” Enforcement of the law has been blocked by court orders pending resolution of the constitutional challenge. Both sides had vowed to appeal an unfavorable decision to the state Supreme Court.

Virginia – Bob McDonnell and Wife Indicted in Gift Scandal

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman, Carol Leonnig, and Sari Horwitz | Published: 1/21/2014

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, were indicted on 14 counts of fraud, conspiracy, and obstructing federal investigators, stemming from a gift-giving scandal. McDonnell and his wife have acknowledged taking gifts from businessperson Jonnie Williams, including catering fees for the wedding of the McDonnells’ daughter. In exchange, authorities allege they worked in concert to lend the prestige of the governorship to Williams’ struggling company, which sells dietary supplements.

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.

Lobbying

“Whose former staffers make the most as lobbyists? Lott, Frist, Hoyer top the list” by Lee Drutman and Alexander Furnas in the Sunlight Foundation Blog.

“Most Top Communication Groups Increase Lobbying” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Alabama: “Alabama Legislature to take on two big issues on Thursday” by Max Reiss in WBRC News.

Connecticut: “Connecticut’s Big Spenders in Lobbying” by Joseph De Avila in The Wall Street Journal.

Campaign Finance

“Hillary Clinton foes file FEC complaint” by Byron Tau and Katie Glueck in Politico.

California: “Lobbyist charged in financing scheme” by Kristina Davis in The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Washington: “Senate Republicans want to alter makeup of state campaign finance regulator” by Brad Shannon in The Olympian.

Ethics

Louisville, Kentucky: “Senate panel votes to allow subpoena power for Louisville ethics commission” by Sebastian Kitchen in The Courier-Journal.

Virginia: “Experts: McDonnell’s corruption trial will test line between political favors, official action” by Carol D. Leonnig and Rosalind S. Helderman in The Washington Post.

Virginia: “Virginia Delegates Start Work on Ethics Legislation” on WVIR NBC News.

Redistricting

Illinois: “Group pushes for redistricting reform” by T.J. Fowler in The Southern Illinoisan.

Indiana: “House sends redistricting bill to Senate” by Erika Brock in The Reporter-Times.

Lobbying

“Nightmare on K St. — the 2013 sequel” by Kevin Bogardus and Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“K Street mines for gold in Silicon Valley” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“National Assn. of Realtorsʹ Lobbying Jumps 53%” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Iowa: “Public sector spending on lobbying Iowa state government up” by B.A. Morelli in The Gazette.

Campaign Finance

California: “2 Charged for Illegal Campaign Contributions in San Diego Mayor’s Race” by Candice Nguyen in NBC 7 San Diego News.

Maine: “‘Clean electionsʹ advocates push for 2015 referendum” by David Carkhuff in the Portland Daily Sun.

New Mexico: “Courts limit reach of NM campaign finance law” by Thomas J. Cole in the Albuquerque Journal.

New York: “Cuomo takes a first step toward campaign finance reform” by Jessica Alaimo in Capital New York.

Texas: “Texas ʹDark Moneyʹ debate rekindled” by David Rauf in the Houston Chronicle.

Ethics

Florida: “Local lawmaker’s bill could ease ethics-reporting requirements” by Andy Reid in the Sun Sentinel.

Virginia: “McDonnell, wife charged with corruption” by Rebecca Shabad and Cameron Joseph in The Hill.

Redistricting

Ohio: “Can Ohio erase partisan pencils?” by Chrissie Thompson in the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Open Government

West Virginia: “Ethics Commission works to rectify meeting violation” by Phil Kabler in the Charleston Gazette.

Lobbying

“Some Corporations and Associations Cut Lobbying Expenditures” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Top-Ranked Chamber of Commerce Increases Lobbying In 4th Quarter” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“K Street pays top dollar for revolving door talent” by Lee Drutman and Alexander Furnas in the Sunlight Foundation Blog.

Campaign Finance

“The Consequences of ‘Citizens United’” by Ian Vandewalker in The Brennan Center for Justice Blog.

Maine: “Campaign watchdogs: Private groups will spend 80 percent more on Maine elections in 2014” by Mario Moretto in the Bangor Daily News.

New Mexico: “Report: PAC spending doubles after Citizens United” by Steve Terrell in the Santa Fe New Mexican.

Ethics

Washington: “Senate bill would shift control of Public Disclosure Commission to top legislators” by John Stark in The Bellingham Herald.

Lobbying

“Obama lobbying ban faces setback in court” by Andy Sullivan (Reuters) in the Chicago Tribune.

“Federal court orders rehearing on lobbying ban” by Byron Tau in Politico Influence.

“Congress and Lobbyists Are Going Downhill” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Missouri: “Missouriʹs secretary of state proposes his own lobbyist restriction plan” by Phil Brooks in the South County Mail.

West Virginia: “Statehouse beat: Lobbyist spending for 2013” by Phil Kabler in the Charleston Gazette.

Campaign Finance

California: “Two groups that used secret political donations haven’t paid penalties” by Chris Megerian in the Los Angeles Times.

Louisiana: “Ethics board limits Vitter fundraising” by Marha Shuler in The Advocate.

Massachusetts: “Candidates cough up campaign costs” by Erin Smith in the Boston Herald.

New York: “Cuomo’s Budget Is Said to Include Ethics and Campaign Finance Reforms” by Thomas Kaplan in The New York Times.

New York: “205 campaign finance reports not posted because of errors” by Jessica Alaimo in Capital New York.

Rhode Island: “RI Board of Elections fines NRA for campaign law violation” by Philip Marcelo in the Providence Journal.

Utah: “Utah Senator Calling For Campaign Finance Reform” by Christine L. McCarthy in KUTV News.

Ethics

California: “Senate ethics chief calls allegations against Sen. Calderon troubling” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.

Kentucky: “Legislative Research Commission pay to join larger ethics push” by Kevin Wheatley in The State Journal.

Massachusetts: “Mass. panel OKs new conflict of interest rule” by The Associated Press in The Boston Globe.

Virginia: “Gilbert introduces ethics reform bill” by Joe Beck in The Northern Virginia Daily.

Congress

“Welcome Back, Congress” from Roll Call.

From the State Legislatures

“Introducing ʹGetting Thereʹ: NCSL’s new mobility newsletter” by NCSL.

Government Tech and Social Media

Kansas: “Bill would put legislative committee meetings a mouse click away” by Scott Rothschild in the Lawrence Journal-World.

Missouri legislators made ethics a top priority at the start of their legislative session. The Legislature convened on January 8 and members filed at least 10 bills addressing issues such as lobbyist registration, gifts to public officials, campaign contribution limits, and revolving door provisions.

Although Missouri is one of few states placing no restrictions on campaign donations or lobbyist gifts, reform appears to be of bipartisan concern. Secretary of State Jason Kander announced the most comprehensive approach to ethics reform with HB1340, introduced by Rep. Kevin McManus. The proposal establishes contribution limits, closes the revolving door for legislative officials, and establishes a lobbyist gift ban.

Kander’s proposal is unique in that it also adds mandatory registration requirements for paid political consultants as well as whistle-blower incentives. Those who provide information about ethics violations could receive 10 percent of the fines collected for the violation they revealed.

The Legislature discounted opportunities in the past to address ethics reform. With momentum building, many are hoping this is the year for change.

National:

A National Strategy Funds State Political Monopolies

New York Times – Nicholas Confessore | Published: 1/12/2014

A sophisticated political apparatus was designed by Republicans to channel political money from around the country into states where conditions were ripe for a GOP takeover. In 2010, the effort achieved striking success, moving a dozen states to sole Republican control. In 2012, a resurgent Democratic version began to catch up, spearheading Democratic takeovers in Minnesota and Colorado. Their combined work has helped remake the nation’s political landscape.

Federal:

How Lobbyists Still Fly Through Loophole

National Journal – Shane Goldmacher | Published: 1/9/2014

A National Journal investigation found that despite efforts to clip the wings of congressional travel planned and paid for by special interests, lawmakers are again taking flight. The reality is that lobbyists who cannot legally buy a lawmaker a sandwich can still escort members on trips all around the world.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Arizona Lobbyist Pleads Guilty to Misdemeanor

San Francisco Chrionicle – Jacques Billeaud (Associated Press) | Published: 1/13/2014

Two years ago, the Arizona attorney general’s office and FBI raided the Phoenix office of lobbyist Gary Husk as part of a sweeping investigation into a campaign finance scandal involving the Fiesta Bowl. Husk recently pleaded guilty to a single misdemeanor charge and will pay $30,000 to offset part of the cost of the criminal investigation. The state will drop 15 felony charges against him and his firm in the plea deal.

Arkansas – Embattled Ark. Lt. Gov. Ran for Office as Outsider

San Francisco Chronicle – Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) | Published: 1/10/2014

Lt. Gov. Mark Darr, who was facing the threat of impeachment in the aftermath of a settlement with the Arkansas Ethics Commission, said he would resign on February 1. Although Darr had resisted bipartisan demands for his resignation, he agreed to quit as lawmakers openly discussed removing him from office. State investigators determined Darr had repeatedly broken the law by using campaign money for personal reasons, accepting improper contributions, and maintaining faulty records.

Delaware – Veasey Report Underscores ‘Pay to Play’ as Real Fear for Residents

Wilmington News Journal – Maureen Milford | Published: 1/15/2014

For some in Delaware, a special prosecutor’s depiction of Delaware’s “pay-to-play” culture has only further diminished their trust in government. While E. Norman Veasey outlined many cases of the corrupt culture, no public official will be prosecuted, either because the statute of limitations had expired on the offense or the investigators could not find credible evidence to prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt.

Massachusetts – Ethics Rules Bar Wellesley Firefighters from Cruise

Boston Globe – Jaclyn Reiss | Published: 1/15/2014

Four Boston area firefighters that talk show host Ellen DeGeneres rewarded with Caribbean cruise tickets for rescuing a dog from an icy river had to return them because of conflicts with Massachusetts ethics law. State law prohibits municipal officials from accepting gifts worth $50 or more because of something they have done in their official job capacity, including payment of travel expenses, which the cruise would probably have fallen under.

Missouri – Approaches Vary for Strengthening Missouri’s Ethics Laws

St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 1/14/2014

Missouri lawmakers have filed at least 10 bills so far to address various ethics issues. The most comprehensive approach was announced by Secretary of State Jason Kander. House Bill 1340 would reinstate campaign contribution limits, ban lobbyist gifts, require legislators to wait three years before becoming lobbyists, and give the state Ethics Commission more power and resources to enforce the law.

Nevada – Political Groups in Nevada Continue Stubborn Fight against Disclosing Donors

Las Vegas Sun – Andrew Doughman | Published: 1/14/2014

Groups unaffiliated with any candidate will likely spend millions of dollars to bankroll advertisements aimed at Nevada voters, and it is unclear what, if anything, these groups need to say about who is paying for the ads. Judges in several cases are considering whether groups sending political messages must disclose their donors in the state.

Pennsylvania – Cash Gifts Banned in New Philadelphia Board of Ethics Proposal

WHYY – Dave Davies | Published: 1/15/2014

The Philadelphia Board of Ethics has now crafted a proposed standard for gifts that bars a city employee from taking anything worth more than $50 from someone whose interests the employee could affect, and prohibits cash gifts entirely. City law bars employees from accepting gifts “of substantial economic value” from people whose interests they could affect and for months, the board has worked to clarify just what that means.

Texas – Statewide Hopeful Sid Miller Shifted Stocks from Campaign Account to Personal Use to Pay off Loans

Dallas Morning News – David Barer | Published: 1/12/2014

The Texas Ethics Commission is investigating a complaint alleging state Rep. Sid Miller, who is running for agriculture commissioner, improperly loaned his campaign candidate  $10,000 at a 10 percent interest rate in order to personally collect more than $31,000 years later. It appears the ethics agency is also looking into his former campaign’s investment of close to $100,000 in the stock market, which he then transferred to himself after his failed 2012 re-election bid.

Vermont – Vt. Senate Approves Political Money Bill

WCAX; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/16/2014

The Vermont Legislature passed Senate Bill 82, which sets new limits on campaign contributions to candidates, political committees, and parties. The legislation now goes to Gov. Peter Shumlin for his approval.

Virginia – McAuliffe Imposes Far-Reaching Gift Limit on Himself and His Staff

Washington Post – Rachel Weiner | Published: 1/11/2014

Hours after his inauguration, Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe signed an executive order that establishes a gift limit of $100 for all administration officials and their families, including the governor himself. Gifts from lobbyists are banned altogether, although anything under $25 is not classified as a gift. The order also creates a three-person ethics commission, including $100,000 in start-up funds, with the authority to monitor compliance and recommend discipline for violators.

Washington – Food Industry Lobby Challenges State Disclosure Law as Unconstitutional

Seattle Post-Intelligencer – Joel Connelly | Published: 1/13/2014

The Grocery Manufacturers Association filed a legal challenge to Washington’s campaign finance disclosure laws. The state has argued GMA ran a money-laundering operation in the 2013 campaign, shielding identities of food manufacturers pouring more than $10 million into the campaign against Initiative 522. The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of requiring GMA to register a political committee before requesting and receiving contributions to oppose the ballot measure.

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.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“How do people become lobbyists? Ask USA TODAY” by George Hager in USA Today.

“K Street’s Ogilvy adds firepower on taxes” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Arizona: “Lobbyist pleads guilty to misdemeanor” by The Associated Press in the Casa Grande Dispatch.

Campaign Finance

“Schock donor tied to campaign finance case” by Catherine Skiba in the Chicago Tribune.

“Super PAC Boom Marginalizes Women, Report Says” by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.

“Super PAC, Outside Spending Chiefs Make Big Bucks” by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.

Delaware: “Veasey, task force to discuss campaign finance reform in Delaware” by Jonathan Starkey in The News Journal.

Mississippi: “Incomplete campaign-finance reports accepted in Mississippi” by Anita Lee in the Sun Herald.

New Mexico: “Poll: Big money in politics equals serious problem” by Thomas Cole in the Albuquerque Journal.

Utah: “House committee hears suggestions to change campaign finance law” by Billy Hesterman in the Daily Herald.

Vermont: “Vermont Senate to vote whether to ratify agreement on campaign finance bill” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Wisconsin: “Dark money: How Wisconsin’s most politically influential organizations avoid disclosing their donors” by Jack Craver in The Capital Times.

Ethics

Arizona: “State legislator floats ban on free tickets” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Sun.

Missouri: “Missouri secretary of state unveils proposal on campaign finance, ethics” by Jordan Shapiro (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Missouri: “Ethics in politics? Missouri legislators will try, again, to tighten laws” by Virginia Young in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

South Carolina: “Don’t pay ethics fine, don’t get on the ballot?” by Andrew Shain in The State.

From the State Legislatures

Colorado: “Colorado lawmakers mourn death of ʹ101st lawmakerʹ Clarence Miller” by Lynn Bartels in the Denver Post.

Delaware: “Legislators return to Dover with full slate” by Jonathan Starkey and Jon Offredo in  The News Journal.

Hawaii: “Legislature honors its past” by Sarah Zoellick in the Honolulu Star Advertiser.

Missouri: “Missouri House Democrats pick new leaders” by The Associated Press in The News Tribune.

Oklahoma: “Oklahoma lawmaker’s plan would effectively eliminate the state House” by Graham Lee Brewer in The Oklahoman.

South Carolina: “SC speaker: Legislative session will go on despite ethics ʹsmear campaignʹ” by Jamie Self in The State.

Tennessee: “TN lawmakers begin session with tribute to Lois DeBerry” by Chas Sisk in The Tennessean.

Tennessee: “Tennessee Legislature opens with revenue worries” by Andy Sher in the Times Free Press.

West Virginia: “Lawmakers meet again after delay from chemical spill” by Dave Boucher in the Charleston Daily Mail.

Open Government

Mississippi: “Ethics chief Tom Hood wants more authority over public records law” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Lobbying

“Bottom Line” in The Hill.

“Lobbyists Ask, Then Write, ʹWhere The Jobs Areʹ” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call.

“Gillespie Senate run tests stigma of ʹlobbyistʹ label” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

“Why Campaign Finance Laws Make Things Worse” opinion piece by Jonathan Bernstein in Bloomberg News.

Louisiana: “Democratic Super PAC Funnels More Funds Into Louisiana” by Emily Cahn in Roll Call.

Missouri: “Missouri Democrats to outline campaign finance plan” in the Kansas City Star.

Nevada: “Political groups in Nevada continue stubborn fight against disclosing donors” by Andrew Doughman in the Las Vegas Sun.

New Hampshire: “Campaign finance reformers march through N.H.” by John Toole in the Eagle-Tribune.

Ethics

Georgia: “Grand jury scheduled to meet in Georgia ethics case” by The Associated Press in the Athens Herald-Banner.

South Carolina: “State grand jury to investigate ethics allegations against SC House Speaker Bobby Harrell” by Jamie Self in The State.

From the State Legislatures

South Carolina: “Legislature kicks off with old issues on agenda” by Seanna Adcox (Associated Press) in GoUpstate.com.

South Carolina: “Dueling rallies to greet returning S.C. legislators” by Adam Beam in The State.

South Dakota: “5 things to know about SD 2014 legislative session” by The Associated Press in the Capital Journal.

Washington: “Washington Legislature Convenes With Election Year Issues On Agenda” by Austin Jenkins in Northwest Public Radio.

Wisconsin: “Wisconsin Legislature begins session Tuesday: 5 things to know” by The Associated Press in the Post Crescent.

Government Tech and Social Media

“How Government Leaders Can Stay Out of Social Media Hell” by Mark Schlossberg in Governing.

Kentucky could see updates to its legislative ethics code this session.

House Bill 3 would amend the state ethics code to include recommendations of the Legislative Ethics Commission, including:

• Establishing a “no cup of coffee” rule for gifts from lobbyists and employers to legislators;
• Creating a prohibition on lobbyists and employers paying for out-of-state travel for legislators;
• Including employers of legislative and executive branch lobbyists in the prohibition on campaign contributions during a regular legislative session;
• Requiring the reporting of advertising costs for advertising supporting or opposing legislation; and
• Including legislative candidates in the lobbyist gift prohibition.

The Legislative Ethics Commission has included those recommendations for a number of years in its report to the Legislative Research Commission. The existing ethics law was enacted in 1993.

Lobbying

“Loopholes Give Free Overseas Travel to Lobbyists and Members of Congress” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

“Lobbyists poised for more profit declines, but also finding ways to keep business flowing” by Holly Yeager in The Washington Post.

“Lobbyists Are Making a Political Comeback” by Alex Roarty in National Journal.

“French Firm Acquires Famous DC Lobbying House” by Tess VendenDolder in In the Capital.

“Ex-lawmaker Charlie Bass joins law, lobby firm” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

Alabama: “A National Strategy Funds State Political Monopolies” by Nicholas Confessore in The New York Times.

Arizona: “Campaign finance, photo radar, vouchers on agenda” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Sun.

Vermont: “Senate to tackle campaign finance bill” by Neal P. Goswami in the Rutland Herald.

Wisconsin: “Wisconsin’s not-so-super Super PACs” by Jack Craver in The Capital Times.

Ethics

“House of Representatives Improves Disclosure of Stock Trades” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Lieutenant Governors Make Headlines — For All The Wrong Reasons” by Alan Greenblatt on NPR.

Arkansas: “Arkansas Lt. Gov. Mark Darr to step down over campaign violations” in United Press International.

Kansas: “Kan. House speaker names ethics commission member” by The Associated Press in The Washington Times.

South Carolina: “AG: Decision on Haley trip up to ethics commission” by Seanna Adcox in the Greenville News.

Election Law

Rhode Island: “Ruling on R.I. campaign literature law raises constitutional questions” by Katie Mulvaney in the Providence Journal.

Congress

“Beware: More congressional rancor ahead” by Burgess Everett in Politico.

“Lawmakers Will Tackle Packed Agenda Before Recess” by Meredith Shiner in Roll Call.

From the State Legislatures

“By week’s end, half the states will have begun their 2014 sessions” by Niraj Chokshi in The Washington Post.

Arizona: “Gov. Jan Brewer lays out agenda for lawmakers” by Bob Christie in the Arizona Daily Star.

Arizona: “AZ Chamber wants law to limit legislative session” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Star.

Iowa: “2014 Iowa Legislature: Lighter business agenda planned” by Matthew Patane in the Des Moines Register.

Kansas: “Issues that will dominate the 2014 legislative session” by Scott Rothschild in the Lawrence Journal-World.

Maryland: “With session’s start, Annapolis again at center of state government, politics” by Pamela Wood in The Baltimore Sun.

Oregon: “Legislative hearings prepare for 2014 session” by Anna Staver in the Statesman Journal.

Government Tech and Social Media

“6 Cool Apps From Uncle Sam” by Elena Malykhina in Information Week Government.

The bipartisan Senate Select Committee on Ethics has issued its final report and recommendations on an ethics bill to be considered during the start of next week’s legislative session. House Bill 3945 already has 54 pending Senate amendments and will likely have more by next week.

The committee’s final report highlighted possible changes to lobbying regulations including a two-year revolving door restriction and a doubling of annual registration fees from $100 to $200. The committee recommends “meaningful and comprehensive ethics reform” to address weaknesses in the current law.

National:

Koch-Backed Political Coalition, Designed to Shield Donors, Raised $400 Million in 2012

Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 1/6/2014

An analysis of tax returns and other documents shows the network of politically active nonprofits backed by billionaires Charles and David Koch and fellow donors in the 2012 elections raised at least $407 million. Its funders remain largely unknown; the coalition was carefully constructed with extensive legal barriers to shield its donors.

Federal:

Political Donors Chase Funding Alternative

Wall Street Journal – Thomas Catan | Published: 1/5/2014

Lawyers are scouring the tax code for financial vehicles that would allow donors to continue to spend money on elections while remaining anonymous. The search for new ways to collect and distribute campaign cash comes because the IRS proposed rules to restrict political activity by social-welfare groups. Their use in campaigns has soared in the last two years, in part because they can accept contributions of unlimited size and do not have to disclose the names of their donors.

Tangled Role in G.O.P. War over Tea Party

New York Times – Eric Lipton | Published: 1/3/2014

Former U.S. Rep. Steven LaTourette has emerged as one of the leaders of the Republican establishment’s battle against the tea party. While he says he is protecting the GOP from extremists, some maintain LaTourette is profiting from his continued presence in the Washington spotlight. His activities have raised questions about whether, in his dual roles, LaTourette violated the federal statute that prohibits lawmakers from lobbying on Capitol Hill for a year after leaving office.

From the States and Municipalities:

Colorado – Colorado GOP Wants to Skirt Campaign Contribution Limits

Washington Post – Reid Wilson | Published: 1/8/2014

Taking the lead of outside political groups who benefit from laws that allow them to receive unlimited political contributions, the Colorado Republican Party is trying to form its own special spending arm. In a petition filed with Secretary of State Scott Gessler, the state GOP asks permission to create an independent expenditure unit to raise and spend money on campaigns. The party is asking Gessler to allow them to accept unlimited contributions, just as super PACs and other outside groups are allowed to do.

Maryland – Md. Lawmakers Conduct Fundraising Frenzy on Eve of Legislative Session

Washington Post – Jenna Johnson and John Wagner | Published: 1/7/2014

When Maryland’s legislative session convened on January 8, so did a ban on collecting campaign donations for lawmakers and statewide elected officials. Although each January is marked by a last-minute cash grab, this year is different. All statewide posts and all 188 seats in the General Assembly will be on the ballot in November, and the primary election has been moved up to June from September, shortening the fundraising window and intensifying the pleas.

Missouri – Missouri’s No-Limit Legislature Stokes Debate over Ethics Reform

Kansas City Star – Jason Hancock | Published: 1/4/2014

Missouri lawmakers returned to the Capitol recently, 12 years after term limits kicked in and six years since caps on political donations officially ended. The combination of those two factors, critics argue, has tipped the legislative scale, with all the experience – and the money – to the lobbying side. Interviews with lawmakers, lobbyists, and political observers reveal a legislative process where outright corruption is rare, but money talks.

Nevada – Judge Allows Ex-Lobbyist Whittemore to Delay Prison

Las Vegas Sun – Sandra Chereb (Associated Press) | Published: 1/3/2014

A judge granted Harvey Whittemore’s motion to postpone prison. Whittemore was sentenced to two years in prison for violating campaign finance laws by using family and friends as “straw donors” to pump more than $130,000 into the campaign of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.  Whittemore’s lawyers asked the judge to delay the sentence, arguing the U.S. Supreme Court’s pending ruling in a case challenging individual campaign limits could ultimately have bearing on his appeal.

New Jersey – Christie Fires Aide in Bridge Scandal as U.S. Opens Inquiry

New York Times – Marc Santora and William Rashbaum | Published: 1/9/2014

Gov. Chris Christie fired a top aide at the center of a brewing scandal that officials in his administration orchestrated lane closures on the George Washington Bridge to settle a political score. The governor told a news conference he was stunned by revelations that senior staff members were behind the massive traffic jams in Ft. Lee, designed to punish the town’s mayor, who did not endorse Christie for re-election. The office of the U.S. attorney in New Jersey said it had launched an investigation.

New York – Will Public Financing Push Ever Come to Shove in State

Albany Times Union – Jordan Carleo-Evangelist | Published: 1/5/2014

The decision on whether New York adopts some kind of public campaign finance system will fall largely to the power brokers in the state Legislature, a body so riven with scandal in recent years that some public finance advocates see movement on the question as all but inevitable in the coming months. The push for public financing was at once a centerpiece and the most divisive recommendation in the preliminary report by Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s anti-corruption Moreland Commission.

Virginia – Virginia Lawmakers Detail Ethics Reform Plans

Washington Post – Rachel Weiner | Published: 1/7/2014

Virginia House leaders have spent the past few months hammering out a bipartisan ethics reform proposal, focused on a few key areas. The plan includes a $250 cap on “tangible” gifts from lobbyists and individuals with business before the state. It also would increase financial disclosure reporting requirements from once to twice per year for lobbyists and lawmakers.

Washington – Lobbyist Freebies on Legislative Agenda

The Olympian – Brad Shannon | Published: 1/6/2014

Lawmakers say the divided Washington Legislature might act on the issue of lobbyists buying meals for politicians when they convene for the session that starts on January 13. One bill would give the state Public Disclosure Commission new technology so electronically filed lobbyist reports can be searched and cross-referenced. House Majority Leader Pat Sullivan has complained that lobbyists often report spending for meals for lawmakers at levels much higher than the actual value.

Wyoming – Conservative Wyoming Group Battles Federal Election Commission over Election Law

Casper Star Tribune – Kyle Roerink | Published: 1/3/2014

A conservative Wyoming-based group hopes to take its fight against the FEC to the U.S. Supreme Court. Free Speech is trying to avoid forming a PAC, and disclosing the names of its donors and being limited in how it can solicit funds and spend money. By requiring groups to register, Free Speech claims the FEC imposes a burden on First Amendment rights.

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.

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Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“K Street pushes to shape $1T omnibus spending legislation” by Bernie Becker and Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“Chamber chief promises midterm blitz” by Ben Goad and Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“GOP leadership aide heads to K Street” by Peter Schroeder in The Hill.

“Yelp seeks DC clout after rapid rise” by Julian Hattem in The Hill.

Kauai County, Hawaii: “Lobbying bill gets green light” by Darin Moriki in The Garden Island.

Maryland: “Report: Top Md. Lobbyists Bring In More Than $37M” by The Associated Press in CBS Baltimore News.

Campaign Finance

Colorado: “Colorado GOP wants to skirt campaign contribution limits” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.

Missouri: “Court To Hear Challenge To Campaign Finance Limits” by Rachel Lippmann in St. Louis Public Radio.

Vermont: “Vt. lawmakers reach deal on campaign finance reform” on WCAX News.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Plenty of unknowns in how to impeach Ark. lt. gov.” by Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) in the San Jose Mercury News.

California: “FPPC heads to court over money laundering allegations against Roger Hernandez” by Rebecca Kimitch in the Daily Bulletin.

Florida: “Palm Beach County Ethics Commission slowdown raises questions” by Andy Reid in the Sun Sentinel.

New York: “Ethics reformers call on Cuomo to use ʹmaximum leverageʹ” by Jessica Alaimo in Capital New York.

Virginia: “Virginia Governor Apologizes for Scandal During His Final State of the State” by Olympia Meola in Governing.

From the State Legislatures

Iowa: “Governor, lawmakers set modest goals for 2014” by Catherine Lucey in the Quad-City Times.

Maine: “ʹLow expectationsʹ for legislative session as election-year politics loom” by Christopher Cousins in the Bangor Daily News.

Missouri: “5 things to know about Missouri’s legislative session” by Chris Blank (Associated Press) in the Missourian.