Lobbying

“Lobbyist league says mission will remain the same” by Byron Tau in Politico.

California: “FPPC fines Kinney, Areias and Hickox for covert lobbying” by Laurel Rosenhall in the Sacramento Bee.

Massachusetts: “Top ten lobby shops each netted more than $600K in first half of 2013” by Andy Metzger in the Patriot Ledger.

Campaign Finance

West Virginia: “State: Mingo County PAC didn’t violate law” by The Associated Press in the Charleston Gazette.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Arkansas Ethics Commission says in letter it’s investigating lt. gov. over campaign reports” by Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Minnesota: “Minn. campaign regulators elect new chairwoman” by The Associated Press in WQOW News.

New York: “NY effort to reveal pols’ law clients has backing” by The Associated Press in The Wall Street Journal.

Pennslvania: “State House panel considers strengthening the state ethics law” by Jan Murphy in the Patriot-News.

Pennsylvania: “State Rep. Daryl Metcalfe calls for investigation into whether Attorney General Kathleen Kane violated the state ethics law” by Jan Murphy in the Patriot-News.

State Legislatures

Hawaii: “Hawaiian governor calls for special session to legalize gay marriage” by Tim Gaynor in Reuters.

Minnesota: “Minnesota legislators OK disaster relief; tax talks delayed” by Jim Ragsdale and Rachel E. Stassen-Berger in the Star Tribune.

Oregon: “Education groups to Kitzhaber: Special session would help stabilize Oregon school funding” by Hannah Hoffman in the Statesman Journal.

I think we all have an idea of what the definition of good government might look like.

1. Bipartisan discussion over important current issues.
2. Keeping “what is best for the country and the electorate” as the most important issue.
3. Maintaining an acceptable conduct as elected public officials.
4. Being receptive to business and other public opinions without being manipulated by special interest groups.

Most of you understand this definition, although I am sure many of you are wondering where these things have gone and what has made them so difficult to maintain and achieve.

Well, I think it has a lot to do with the second part of the title and that includes the words, “In This Environment.”

Just what do these words mean and how have things changed to create the environment we now live in or at least have to live within?

And, of course, the most difficult question “Will good government improve and change the environment we live in or vice versa, Will a better environment give us the opportunity to create good government”

Do I have you sufficiently confused?

The fact is no two topics are more closely related when trying to evaluate this simple statement, “Is good government possible in this environment?”

The sad state of affairs is if you asked the majority of the voting population, the first answer would be “NO.” Of course, NO would be followed by a long litany of their own personal opinions and political advice, be it left or right, which would make everything better if we just follow blindly.

They would also say, not following these simple but absolutely uncompromising ideals is what has gotten us into this mess in the first place.

Judging which of these groups—be they left, right, up, down, or in the middle—is the most responsible for the dilemma of searching for good government, is worse than flipping channels on cable news networks at 5 after 8 p.m. each weekday evening.

Almost incredibly, the art of bad politics has created such an adversarial environment; it seems to be blocking out the sunlight and preventing what this country has done so well for more than 200 years…Govern well.

We seem to be so bogged down in the processes and partisanship, we have lost track of what are the important issues of the day. Good governing—which means in the end, getting things done in a manner as outlined by our Constitution.  This document has no provisions for obstructionism. If anything, it has far more implied provisions for compromise and reconciliation.

This is a bit overwhelming for me—a small business owner, in a regional city like Akron, Ohio—to address. You see, the main goal of my company, in a manner of speaking, is to assure good government has half a chance to exist. State and Federal Communications is responsible for assisting corporations and trade associations to realize what the laws say and stay compliant to the laws as they relate to their lobbying and political contributions activities.

This simple idea of  operating within the framework of the law is what we excel in conveying to our clients. We make no compromises, and we expect good ethical conduct from our clients. We suggest by doing this, our clients can create a GOOD environment, which in turn will allow for the opportunity for good government to thrive and, thereby, help our clients continue to be successful businesses.

This is just our small world of specific topics—lobbying and political contributions—but it also allows us to think of how these simple principles work on a much more grand scale—such as on the national level.

It seems the environment has become polluted and is no longer conducive to allowing good government to thrive. At every turn, we hear about corruption and degradation of “the environment” at almost every level.

Think for a minute. How often do you read or hear about an elected or appointed official, tasked with the responsibility of good governing or overseeing good government at the municipal, state, or even federal level, in some type of ethical or criminal trouble?

These constant stains on our national environment leave those attempting to provide good government with an almost impossible task. Add to this situation the lack of confidence by the electorate and the constant partisan bashing of government officials in the media, and you begin to see how difficult changing this environment has become.

So, who wins? Good government or the bad environment? And, is it possible for good government to inevitably thrive again?

My answer is, YES. But, we must be diligent and use the power we have been given to fix this situation. It may be one of the most disheartening bits of information out there, but the fact that sometimes only 25 to 50 percent of eligible voters take advantage of this privilege is amazing.

We have it within our power as individuals to push things back on the path of good governing and good government. And, we will. We need to encourage everyone to use their constitutional right and step up and be heard. We need to:

1. Demand politicians maintain a high ethical standard;
2. Demand policies and issues are dealt with in a compromising manner so progress can be made; and
3. Be assured, elected officials are more concerned with doing what is best for the people and the country and are not driven by special interest groups or mindless re-election campaigns.

And, most of all, encourage everyone to go out and VOTE. That single simple task, just a few times a year, is our best hope for assuring good government is still possible in this environment.

Thank you,

Elizabeth Z. Bartz
President and CEO

Lobbying

“‘Big bucks’ lobbying hurts American political system” by Jim Nowlan in the News-Gazette.

“Lobbying the Media Pivotal to Legislative Issues” by Dara Kam in Sunshine State News.

“The State of Lobbying in a Gridlocked Congress” on Bloomberg TV.

New York: “Bill de Blasio fails to go public about all meetings with lobbyists” by Mara Gay in the New York Daily News.

Campaign Finance

“Legislators in at least 23 states are trying to do something about dark money” by Niraj Chokshi in the Washington Post.

“Unions dramatically increase super PAC donations” by Michael Beckel on NBC News.

“Many overhyped super PACs are super in name only” by Tarini Parti in Politico.

“In Senate bid, Markey benefited by contributions and spending by PACs, outside interest groups” by Steve LeBlanc (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Arkansas: “Arkansas Is Next Battleground For Citizens United Constitutional Amendment” by Paul Blumenthal in the Huffington Post.

Colorado: “Colorado Recall Drives Reveal Influence Of ‘Dark Money’ On Local Politics” by Frederick Reese in Mint Press News.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Lt. Governor Mark Darr could face state ethics violations” by Elicia Dover in KATV News.

Massachusetts: “Former ethics officials seeking change that would assist Wolf” by Matt Murphy in the Hanover Mariner.

Missouri: “Missouri House speaker’s side business raises ethical issues” by Jason Hancock in The Kansas City Star.

Washington: “Ethics refs say free college football for lawmakers is legal” by Jordan Schrader in The Olympian.

Legislative News

“What (Not) to Expect from Congress This Session” by Peter Harkness in Governing.

“From Barbeques to Pink Running Shoes: States’ Special Sessions” by Pamela M. Prah in Stateline.

California: “Lawmakers to weigh about 400 bills in session’s last week” by Patrick McGreevy and Melanie Mason in the Los Angeles Times.

Minnesota: “Minnesota lawmakers return to St. Paul today” by Rachel E. Stassen-Berger in the Star Tribune.

Missouri: “Guns, taxes on the agenda as Missouri lawmakers return to Capitol” by Elizabeth Crisp in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Common Cause teams with techies to help voters” by The Associated Press in the Albany Times Union.

National:

Battle over Dark Money Takes Many Forms on State Level

Sunlight Foundation – Peter Olsen-Phillips | Published: 9/5/2013

A Sunlight Foundation survey found dozens of laws that passed or are pending in state Legislatures addressing the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizen United ruling. The foundation said while few bills have made it into law so far, the legislation that has been introduced suggests widespread interest in improving transparency at the state level.

Federal:

Feds Could Allow Bitcoin Campaign Donations

Politico – Byron Tau | Published: 9/4/2013

The FEC may determine rules governing donations made in Bitcoins and how they apply to campaigns. Lawyers for Conservative Action Fund PAC asked the agency decide if candidates and outside groups are allowed to accept the digital currency, in addition to U.S. dollars. Bitcoin, which allows for anonymous, encrypted digital transactions, has come under fire from regulators who worry about the lack of oversight and the currency’s potential use in crime.

From the States and Municipalities:

Alaska – Alaska Town Roots for Feline Mayor Attacked by Dog

Houston Chronicle – Rachel D’Oro (Associated Press) | Published: 9/5/2013

The honorary mayor of Talkeetna, Alaska is in bad shape after being attacked by a dog. Stubbs the cat made it to the mayor’s office through a write-in campaign. He has held the honorary position for more than 15 years. His election earned him enough press to catapult the town at the base of Mount McKinley into a tourist destination.

California – California Republicans Thrive at the Local Level

Los Angeles Times – Mark Barabak | Published: 9/3/2013

Over the last two decades, California has become a Democratic fortress, beyond the GOP’s reach in presidential campaigns and all but hopeless in statewide contests. At the local level, the picture is quite different. Despite the Democrats’ sizable statewide registration advantage, Republicans hold close to half the 2,500 mayoral and city council seats in California.

California – New Rules Give Daily Updates on Money in Mayor’s Race

San Diego Union Tribune – Craig Gustafson | Published: 9/4/2013

New rules in San Diego require any campaign contribution of $1,000 or more be disclosed within 24 hours during the 90-day period before an election. That is an expansion from the earlier state law that mandated such disclosures in the final 16 days of a race. The change will be in effect for the November 19 special election for mayor.

Colorado – In Colorado Recall Law, Victory for Incumbents Means Cash Refunds

Denver Post – Kurtis Lee | Published: 9/3/2013

If Senate President John Morse and Sen. Angela Giron win their recall elections, Colorado law provides that incumbents can collect up to 10 cents per vote. Morse and Giron, who face recalls for their support of gun laws passed this year by the Legislature, would have 60-days after the date of the recall election to file a request with the state.

Florida – Top Florida Senate Aide Gets $400,000 as Moonlighting Political Consultant

Tampa Bay Times – Mary Ellen Klas | Published: 8/31/2013

For three years, Chris Clark took a leave of absence from his job as a legislative staff member when the session ended and went to work as Florida Senate President Don Gaetz’s campaign manager, and earned more than $400,000. The lucrative arrangement underscores the financial ties special interests have with the Legislature as staff often cycle in and out of government and the private sector, developing relationships with the lobbyists who have a financial stake in influencing them.

Kentucky – Ex-Hoops Star Reaches Plea Deal, Could Get 2 Years

Kansas City Star – Roger Alford (Associated Press) | Published: 9/5/2013

Former Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer entered into agreements with federal and state prosecutors, as well as the Executive Branch Ethics Commission, that would resolve all charges against him. He will plead guilty to two counts and receive a sentence in the range of 21 to 27 months. Farmer had faced a five-count federal indictment for misusing state resources. He also faced a 42-count charge brought by the commission.

Massachusetts – Former Mass. LG Fined for Campaign Violations

Boston Globe – Bob Salsberg (Associated Press) | Published: 8/29/2013

Timothy Murray agreed to pay $80,000 to settle charges he collected illegal campaign contributions raised by two public officials, capping a controversy that derailed the former Massachusetts lieutenant governor’s political career. Murray collected tens of thousands of dollars in donations solicited by former Chelsea Housing Authority Executive Director Michael McLaughlin, who was indicted for several campaign finance violations, including unlawful solicitation by a public employee.

New Jersey – Birdsall Services Group Ordered to Pay $1 Million after Pleading Guilty to Making Illegal Campaign Contributions

Bergen Record – Abbott Koloff | Published: 8/31/2013

Birdsall Services Group was ordered to $1 million in criminal penalties for making illegal campaign contributions that violated New Jersey’s “pay-to-play” law. The engineering firm is prohibited from working on government contracts in New Jersey for 10 years. Birdsall ceased operating after it declared bankruptcy earlier this year and sold its assets to a California company.

New Mexico – Judge Strikes Down City Ban on Corporate Gifts

Albuquerque Journal – Dan McKay | Published: 9/5/2013

U.S. District Court Judge M. Christine Armijo ruled Albuquerque’s ban on corporate campaign contributions is unconstitutional. Armijo did not explicitly address a companion prohibition that covers donations from city contractors. Her earlier decisions, however, restricted the scope of that ban.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Ethics Commission Seeks Clearer Rules

Enid News & Eagle – Dale Denwalt | Published: 8/30/2013

Oklahoma Ethics Commission Director Lee Slater said a rewrite of the rules governing lobbying and campaign finance is on schedule. Slater said the first set of draft rules, dealing primarily with administrative matters, will be posted soon. Additional draft guidelines will be posted around the first of October and the first of November. The commission expects to vote on a final draft in January. Those rules will become effective 90 days after adoption unless they are rejected by the Legislature.

South Carolina – Leadership Positions Pay Off in Legislature

The State – Jamie Self | Published: 9/1/2013

Climbing the leadership ladder in the South Carolina General Assembly pays fundraising dividends for powerful lawmakers, according to campaign finance reports. A review by The State found contributions increased substantially for six members elevated to powerful leadership roles in the committees that oversee state spending and laws, and the Legislature’s political caucuses.

Texas – Eluding Big Ethics Fines

San Antonio Express-News – David Saleh Rauf | Published: 9/1/2013

The Texas Ethics Commission, when challenged in court, rarely walks away with the fine it originally levied. Experts point to the appeals process, which the commission and some lawmakers argue undermines the agency’s enforcement muscle. Since 1992, the commission has been challenged four times in court and forced to settle for reduced penalties in three cases.

Virginia – Study Highlights Check-Splitting in Va. Gift Reporting

Washington Post – Laura Vozzella | Published: 8/28/2013

Lobbyists who entertain state officials in Virginia often report each meal as a gift provided by multiple clients. Spreading entertainment costs across multiple clients also understates the value of gifts provided to legislators, who base their disclosure reports on gift summaries that lobbyists provide at the end of the year. Although the practice is not necessarily intended to dodge reporting requirements, it is drawing more scrutiny.

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.

National:

Private Lobbyists Get Public Pensions in 20 States

Politico; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/26/2013

Lobbyists in at least 20 states receive public pensions because they represent associations of counties, cities, and school boards. Legislatures granted them access decades ago on the premise that they serve governments and the public. But several states have started to question whether these organizations should qualify for such benefits, since they are private entities in most respects.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – San Diego Mayor Bob Filner Resigns, Faces Criminal Investigation

Los Angeles Times – Tony Perry and Richard Marosi | Published: 8/23/2013

San Diego Mayor Bob Filner resigned under a barrage of sexual harassment complaints, offering an apology to his accusers while still denying the allegations. In exchange for his resignation, the city will pay most of Filner’s legal fees. It will also cover any punitive damages against him in any lawsuit. A spokesperson for the state attorney general’s office confirmed a criminal investigation into Filner’s treatment of women is underway.

California – State Panel Changes Disclosure Rules for Public Officials’ Travel

Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy | Published: 8/22/2013

The California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) revised gift rules involving travel by elected officials. “[The FPPC] can only require disclosure or impose restrictions if there is a personal benefit to the individual,” said agency Chairperson Ann Ravel.

Connecticut – Former Donovan Aide Gets 38 Months in Campaign Scandal

Hartford Courant – Dave Altimari | Published: 8/27/2013

Robert Braddock, the ex-campaign finance director to former Connecticut House Speaker Chris Donovan’s unsuccessful congressional campaign, was sentenced to more than three years in prison. Braddock and seven other co-defendants who pleaded guilty were involved in a scheme that funneled nearly $28,000 to Donovan’s campaign through straw donors in an effort to get Donovan to defeat proposed legislation to raise taxes on roll-your-own cigarette shops.

Florida – Lobbyist Fee Reports Are Just another Type of Competition

Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 8/23/2013

The large paydays reported by some Florida lobbying firms are causing many to cry foul on the state’s disclosure law. The behind-the-scenes criticism is focused on the law’s requirements mandating only that lobbyist detail what they are paid to ply their trade in $10,000 ranges. The reports have never been subjected to audits. Many complain other lobbyists engage in financial gamesmanship in order to boost their status or draw new clients.

Florida – Texas-Sized B-Day Party for Scott Aide Hosted by Lobbyist and Wife

Tampa Bay Times – Michael Van Sickler | Published: 8/27/2013

Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s chief of staff, Adam Hollingsworth attended a birthday party for another top gubernatorial staffer at the home of Daniel and Monica Russell. Daniel Russell is a registered lobbyist for Northrop Grumman, which has been in talks with the state about tax incentives for the company. The office handling those negotiations is the Department of Economic Opportunity, where Monica Russell is the spokesperson.

Illinois – DuPage County Board Loosens Cap on Campaign Contributions

Chicago Daily Herald – Robert Sanchez | Published: 8/28/2013

In an attempt to align itself with Illinois’ campaign finance law, the DuPage County Board voted to raise the county donation limit from $1,000 to the state standard of $5,300. The cap had applied to companies and consulting firms, as well as officers and owners of those entities, as well as to any individual appointed or applying for a position on a board, commission, authority, task force, or advisory committee.

Missouri – Klahr Chosen as Director of Mo. Ethics Commission

Miami Herald; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/27/2013

The Missouri Ethics Commission chose James Klahr to be the agency’s executive director beginning on September 13. He was a staff attorney for the state Senate and for Gov. Jay Nixon. Klahr replaces Julie Allen, who stepped down to become the elections director for the secretary of state’s office.

Missouri – Mo. Rep. LaFaver Arrested for Possessing Pot, Quits Democratic Campaign Role but Not House

Columbus Republic – David Lieb (Associated Press) | Published: 8/26/2013

A Missouri lawmaker who was arrested for possession of marijuana during a traffic stop said he would not resign. State Rep. Jeremy LaFaver has, however, stepped down as chairperson of the Democratic Party’s 2014 campaign committee. During this past legislative session, LaFaver sponsored a bill that would have reduced the penalties for marijuana possession; it did not pass.

Nevada – Emails Show How Political Advisers Trumped Staff in Winning Support for ‘More Cops’ Tax

Las Vegas Sun – Anjeanette Damon | Published: 8/27/2013

Before the 2013 legislative session began, Nevada Gov Brian Sandoval followed the advice of outside political advisors and decided to support a tax increase. An email exchange about the move offers a look into who holds sway at the governor’s office, including the role of the two lobbyists.

New York – Millions Sweeten the Casino Pot

Albany Times Union – James Odato | Published: 8/27/2013

The Seneca Indian Nation agreed to give David Flaum a $3 million “development fee” if a casino opens in Monroe County, and a contingency fee of up to $5 million if the tribe gets a state gaming compact by October 1. Lobbyists are banned from receiving contingency fees in New York. Flaum would have to register as a lobbyist if he begins appearing before government officials on behalf of the tribe, particularly for a gaming compact, and contract terms suggest the tribe might direct him to do so.

Ohio – Gov. John Kasich and Ohio Ethics Commission Linked by Political Contributions, Records Show

Cleveland Plain Dealer – Henry Gomez | Published: 8/23/2013

A Cleveland Plain Dealer analysis shows three of the five members of the Ohio Ethics Commission or their spouses have contributed to Gov. John Kasich’s campaigns over the years. Democrats see new relevance in these ties as they call for an ethics investigation of Kasich. The commission rejected a request to explore the governor’s involvement with Worthington Industries, a company that received state tax credits.

Ohio – OH Treasurer Crashes Twice, Makes No Staff Report

Miami Herald – Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) | Published: 8/27/2013

Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel might have violated state and federal campaign laws by traveling across the state this year in a vehicle bought by his failed 2012 U.S. Senate campaign. The possible violation only came to light after a traffic accident in which the Jeep Grand Cherokee was totaled.

Texas – Texas Mayor, Brother, Dad Charged with Corruption

Kansas City Star; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/28/2013

The mayor of a small city in Texas and his brother, the president of the local school board, were charged in a public corruption case that prosecutors said maintained a stranglehold over local government business for years. Also arrested was Jose Vela, the pair’s father and a maintenance worker at the local high school. Prosecutors said he ran city government through his sons and a revolving door of city council and school board candidates recruited by his family.

Virginia – Lax Laws Lead to Cloudy View of Lobbyists’ Spending

The Virginian-Pilot – Julian Walker | Published: 8/29/2013

Lobbyists reported spending $15.9 million in Virginia from May 2012 to April 2013. But critics say it is an incomplete financial picture of all that goes into policy persuasion and legislative influence in a state with lax reporting standards and enforcement of lobbyist disclosures.

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

Virginia: “Lax laws lead to cloudy view of lobbyists’ spending” by Julian Walker in
the Virginian-Pilot.

Virginia: “Lobbyist reports say $15.9 million spent in Virginia” by Olympia Meola and Jim Nolan Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Campaign Finance

California: “MapLight Launches Tool to Easily Search California Secretary of State Campaign Finance Data” by Jay Costa on Maplight.org.

Massachusetts: “Mass. AG: Lawrence mayor broke campaign law” by Steve Le Blanc in Bloomberg News.

Ethics

Florida: “3rd Fla. mayor arrested within the past month” by Curt Anderson in Bloomberg BusinessWeek.

Massachusetts: “Ethics Commission extends deadline for Dan Wolf” by Frank Phillips and Michael Levenson in the Boston Globe.

South Carolina: “SC ethics panel flip-flops on governor’s NC trip” by Adam Beam in The State.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Gamification: Governments Use Gaming Principles to Get Citizens Involved” by Colin Wood in Government Technology.

“Building the Social Town Hall” by Stephen Goldsmith in Government Technology.

Kansas: “State librarians open to texts, calls, IMs about legislative questions” in the Topeka Capital-Journal.

Lobbying

“Report: Top DC lobbyist Podesta retains Landrieu’s husband as realtor” by Alexandra Jaffe in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

Massachusetts: “St. Rep. Alan Silvia fined $20,000 by OCPF; second infraction this year” by Will Richmond in the Milford Daily News.

Ethics

“Senate Rules Committee Sets Date for Considering FEC Nominees” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

Arkansas: “State lawmakers plan refresher course on ethics” by The Associated Press in Northwest Arkansas Times.

New York: “Ex-NY assemblyman pleads guilty in corruption case” by The Associated Press in the Albany Times Union.

Ohio: “Mandel may have illegally used SUV in March crash” by Joe Vardon in The Columbus Dispatch.

South Carolina: “State Ethics Commission has questions for Haley after news of N.C. wreck” by Corey Hutchins in the Charleston City Paper.

Tennessee: “Tennessee governor names former parole board chairman to Ethics Commission” by Tom Humphrey in the Commercial Appeal.

Redistricting

Kentucky: “State lawmakers prepare for new legislative districts” by Amelia Holliday in the Hazard Herald.

City Council has passed the Public Ethics and Financial Disclosure Ordinance (O-41-12), as required by a 2011 state law. The ordinance does not change lobbyist registration or reporting dates, but does add definitions, gift restrictions, and penalties for violations.

Lobbying will now include grassroots activities, but reporting obligations remain focused on expenditures for the benefit of officials and employees. Tickets to sporting events will no longer be permitted and the Annapolis Ethics Commission may impose a fine of $5,000 for each violation.

The legislation was pre-approved by the State Ethics Commission in late October, 2012, allowing the ordinance to take effect January 1, 2014.

The Missouri Ethics Commission has announced James Klahr as the new executive director for a six-year term beginning September 13, 2013. Klahr has worked for now-Governor Jay Nixon since 1997, most recently as the administration’s legislative liaison in the Department of Public Safety.

Klahr replaces Julie Allen, who became the elections director for Secretary of State Jason Kander in January. Stacey Heislen will remain on the commission’s staff after serving as acting director.

Campaign Finance

“Political money back on court’s agenda” by Albert R. Hunt in the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Maryland: “Campaign finance: Behind scenes of elections” by Jennifer Shutt in the Daily Times.

Tennessee: “Registry will review campaign finance complaints against Gov. Haslam, Sen. Campfield” by The Associated Press in the Daily Journal.

Ethics

“Judge Rules Public Interest Outweighs Former Sen. John Ensign’s Privacy Interest” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Bachmann’s Former Aide Sentenced to Community Service” by Jason Dick in Roll Call.

Florida: “Former mayors charged in Miami-Dade bribery scandal seek to delay indictments” by Jay Weaver in the Miami Herald.

Hawaii: “Hawaii governor appoints 2 to ethics commission” by The Associated Press in The State.

North Carolina: “Ethics Commission fines 2, gives 24 political appointees a pass” by John Frank in the News & Observer.

Ohio: “Ohio lawmakers ask watchdog to probe JobsOhio” by The Associated Press in the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Virginia: “Web site backing McDonnell seeks funds for his legal costs” by Laura Vozzella in The Washington Post.

Political Advertising

“Keeping ‘tabs’ on campaign emails” by Hadas Gold in Politico.

From the States

“Snowden elected to NCSL executive committee” by The Associated Press in the Sun Herald.

North Carolina: “McCrory signs regulatory overhaul plan, 32 more bills” by Rob Christensen and David Bracken in the Charlotte Observer.

Oregon: “Special session still is uncertain” by Anna Staver in the Statesman Journal.

Redistricting

Kentucky: “Redistricting bill signed, judges to review” in the Morehead News.

Lobbying

“Former Rep. Jo Bonner Doubles Salary Outside Washington” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Prepaid card industry searching for first lobbyist” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

Connecticut: “Connecticut Ethics office to audit 10 random lobbyists” by The Associated Press in the Norwich Bulletin.

Connecticut: “Lobbying tab for 2012: $51.7 million” by Jacqueline Rabe Thomas in the Connecticut Mirror.

New York: “Private lobbying groups for cities, counties get public pensions in at least 20 states” by The Associated Press in The Washington Post.

Campaign Finance

“Will High Court Widen Flood of Money in Politics?” by Albert R. Hunt in Bloomberg.

“20-somethings jump into super PACs” by Andrea Drusch in Politico.

Alaska: “Campaign finance training in Fairbanks” in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.

Ethics

“FEC Commissioners Battle To Partisan Inaction” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

Ohio: “Gov. John Kasich and Ohio Ethics Commission linked by political contributions, records show” by Henry J. Gomez in The Plain Dealer.

Oklahoma: “Panel in charge of clean elections invites comment on ethics laws” in the Enid News and Eagle.

Wyoming: “Group urges Wyoming to toughen anti-corruption laws” by Joan Barron in the Casper Star-Tribune.

Elections

“Fall Filled With Special Elections for House, Senate” by Abby Livingston and Emily Cahn in Roll Call.

Redistricting

“Governor quickly signs redistricting bill into law” by Roger Alford (Associated Press) in the Lexington Herald-Leader.

Federal:

Campaign Finance Advocates Sue IRS

The Hill – Bernie Becker | Published: 8/21/2013

U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and watchdog groups filed a lawsuit challenging the IRS’ interpretation of a law that governs whether groups qualify for tax-exempt status as so-called social welfare organizations. The suit addresses one of the main concerns that surfaced with the recent IRS targeting controversy: differences between federal law and IRS rules on eligibility for 501(c)(4) candidates.

U.S. Lawmakers Travel the World on Lobbyists’ Tab

Reuters – Richard Cowen | Published: 8/19/2013

Lately, the number of privately financed trips for federal lawmakers offered by corporate interests, lobbyists, universities, and foreign governments have been rising. Trips this year total 1,363, at a cost to the hosts of $3.2 million. Congress clamped down on such travel in 2007 after disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff’s influence-peddling scandal.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arkansas – After Ethics Fine, Paul Bookout Resigns from Legislature

Arkansas Business Journal; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/21/2013

Sen. Paul Bookout resigned his seat in the Arkansas Legislature on the same day a special prosecutor was assigned to investigate his campaign finances. His resignation came days after the state Ethics Commission fined and reprimanded the veteran lawmaker for converting thousands of dollars in political contributions to his personal use.

California – Filner Could Be Out by Friday

San Diego Union Tribune – Craig Gustafson and Mark Walker | Published: 8/21/2013

A tentative deal has been reached in the sexual harassment lawsuit against San Diego Mayor Bob Filner that is likely to oust him from office. City Attorney Jan Goldsmith announced the plan after three days of settlement talks, but said he could not divulge any details until the proposed resolution is approved by the city council, which could happen on August 23. Filner has been under siege for weeks amid allegations he repeatedly sexually harassed women.

California – Hansen Revealed as Arena Petition Backer

Sacramento Bee – Dale Kasler and Tony Bizjak | Published: 8/17/2013

Weeks after billionaire Chris Hansen lost a bid to move the Sacramento Kings to Seattle, he made an undisclosed donation to a group trying to defeat plans to build a new facility for the National Basketball Association team in California. The Fair Political Practices Commission said the money was used to gather signatures for a ballot initiative designed to put to a citywide vote the council’s planned $258 million subsidy for a downtown arena.

Maine – For Maine Governor, Issue Is What They Said He Said

New York Times – Katharine Seelye and Jess Bidgood | Published: 8/20/2013

Maine Gov. Paul LePage denied he said President Barak Obama “hates white people.” Two Republican lawmakers said they heard the governor make the comment during a state Republican Party fundraiser. The problem for LePage, as even some of his allies acknowledge, is whether or not he made this particular comment, he has made so many other blunt assertions that while one more may not matter, the accumulation of such comments could.

Massachusetts – In Mass., Political Lobbying a $100M-a-Year Industry

Lowell Sun – Steve LeBlanc (Associated Press) | Published: 8/19/2013

In 2005, there were just over 800 lobbyists registered in Massachusetts. By 2012, that number had soared to more than 1,600. In part, the increase is due to a change in the definition of a lobbyist. The broadened definition, prompted by a 2009 ethics law, forced many individuals who had avoided the label to officially register.

New York – Nonprofits Are Balking at Law on Disclosing Political Donors

New York Times – Thomas Kaplan | Published: 8/20/2013

New York has emerged as a central battleground for efforts to mandate greater disclosure. Two years after a law was enacted that required tax-exempt groups lobbying state government to reveal where they got their money, a growing number of nonprofit organizations are seeking exemptions, arguing their donors could be endangered if their names were released to the public.

New York – Utility Officials Fined on Freebies

Albany Times Union – James Odato | Published: 8/15/2013

A year after national grid paid the New York Public Service Commission (PSC) $1.67 million to settle charges of providing illegal gifts to state regulators, the utility has agreed to pay $25,000 to settle the same charges with the Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE). The PSC fined National Grid for violating the public service law; JCOPE penalized the utility for violating state lobbying law.

Ohio – Ohio Ethics Chief: Kasich made clean company break

Miami Herald – Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) | Published: 8/15/2013

Ohio Ethics Commission Chairperson Merom Brachman said there is no need for an ethics probe of Gov. John Kasich’s relationship to a company that received hundreds of thousands of dollars in state development tax credits. Brachman, noting the commission is “anxious to not become a political theater,” said data provided by the governor shows conclusively there is no conflict-of-interest to investigate.

Pennsylvania – State Officials’ Free Gala Tickets Lead To Discrepancies in Ethics Reports

WITF – Mary Wilson | Published: 8/19/2013

The way Gov. Tom Corbett and a few state lawmakers treated free tickets to a Philadelphia soiree shows a wide variety of interpretations of Pennsylvania’s ethics law. Last year, the Barnes Foundation threw a gala celebrating its new museum and gave some legislators and members of the administration free entry. For other patrons, tickets were $5,000 each. State law requires gifts of such a value to be publicly disclosed.

South Carolina – Haley’s Attorneys Tried to Get Ethics Charges Dropped

The State – Adam Beam | Published: 8/15/2013

Emails between the South Carolina Ethics Commission and Gov. Nikki Haley’s attorney show she agreed to pay a fine and end allegations over campaign donors’ missing addresses only after irritated commissioners nearly took an agreement off the table and called a public hearing. Haley agreed to pay $3,500, reimburse the ethics agency $2,000, and forward money from eight donors, totaling nearly $4,200, to the Children’s Trust Fund.

Tennessee – Democrats Missing from Panels to Rule on Ethics Complaints against Haslam

Knoxville News Sentinel – Tom Humphrey | Published: 8/17/2013

A former state Democratic Party chairperson filed complaints with the Tennessee Ethics Commission and the Registry of Election Finance, contending Gov. Bill Haslam violated the law by not disclosing his personal payments to lobbyist and political operative Tom Ingram. The commission and registry currently have Republican majority membership because of unfilled vacancies in one case, because Haslam has left a seat designated for a Democrat empty since March.

Virginia – Attorneys for McDonnells to Meet with Prosecutors as Key Phase Opens in Gifts Probe

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman and Carol Leonnig | Published: 8/19/2013

Attorneys for Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his wife met with federal prosecutors over the gifts scandal that has dominated state politics. The meetings open a critical phase of the investigation, timed to help prosecutors decide over the next few weeks whether to file charges, according to two people with knowledge of the investigation.

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The Ethics Commission has announced a scheduled maintenance for the lobbying and campaign finance electronic filing systems.

The filing systems and public access websites will be down between 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2013 and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 25, 2013.

The commission has advised campaign finance entities to plan accordingly if required to file 24-hour expenditure or contribution reports.

On August 19, 2013, the U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE) issued a Legal Advisory to Designated Agency Ethics Officials stating it “now interprets the terms ‘marriage’ and ‘spouse’ to include a same-sex marriage and a same-sex spouse where those terms appear in federal ethics provisions, regardless of the employee’s state of residency.”

The OGE will also interpret the term “relative” to include same-sex spouses.

The directive was created as a result of United States v. Windsor, a U.S. Supreme Court decision made earlier this summer striking down section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional. The OGE consulted with the U.S. Department of Justice before making the Legal Advisory, which took effect on the date of the directive, August 19, 2013.