Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has proposed increasing the frequency of reporting campaign finance data and imposing a reporting requirement before spending for certain campaign contributions. Abbott, a candidate for governor, announced his intentions for these and other ethics reforms while campaigning, according to KHOU.com.

One proposal requires that no funds received above $5,000 within the last 30 days before an election be expended by a campaign or PAC until those funds have been reported to the Texas Ethics Commission and posted on the campaign or PAC website.

Other recommendations include requiring quarterly campaign finance reporting as opposed to semi-annually reporting and requiring public officials to disclose any state or local public contracts or paid relationships held by the official or his or her spouse.

National:

Initiative Spending Booms Past $1 Billion as Corporations Sponsor Their Own Proposals

Washington Post – Reid Wilson | Published: 11/7/2013

The initiative process, originally aimed at giving citizens the chance to break industry’s hold on state Legislatures, is increasingly becoming the domain of corporations and wealthy individuals who advance new laws for their own advantage, bypassing reluctant lawmakers and spending millions of dollars along the way. More than $1 billion has been spent in the past 18 months on ballot initiatives in just 11 states.

Federal:

FEC Poised to Allow Bitcoin Campaign Donations

Politico – Byron Tau | Published: 11/7/2013

A draft proposal from the FEC would allow campaigns to accept, but not spend, the digital currency Bitcoin. According to the proposal, the currency will count as an in-kind contribution to a campaign, like a stock or bond. The agency will not consider them currency.

Pro-Democratic Super PACs Outspend Conservatives

USA Today – Fredreka Schouten | Published: 11/12/2013

Liberal super PACs have spent $10.8 million on federal races this year, twice as much as conservative super PACs. Much of the money has flowed to a handful of elections to fill congressional vacancies. Liberal money also makes up 70 percent of the election-related federal spending by so-called dark money groups – politically active non-profits that do not have to disclose the sources of their money.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – FBI Capitol Sting Shines Light on Latino Caucus

Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 11/10/2013

The details of the most recent leadership fight at the California Legislature’s Latino Caucus caught the attention of FBI agents investigating one caucus member, state Sen. Ron Calderon, for allegedly taking bribes. The emerging case has exposed caucus decisions to public view just as the group’s influence is peaking. The 25 members constitute more than a fifth of the Legislature, control hundreds of thousands of dollars in campaign funds, and wield influence that affects millions of Californians.

Florida – Sweetwater Mayor, Lobbyist Plead Guilty

Miami Herald – Jay Weaver | Published: 11/13/2013

Suspended Sweetwater Mayor Manuel Maroño and lobbyist Jorge Forte pleaded guilty to charges of conspiring to commit honest services fraud. Two others facing similar charges resulting from the same FBI sting operation are former Miami Lakes Mayor Michael Pizzi and lobbyist Richard Candia. The two corruption cases were remarkable even by South Florida’s standards as the crackdown snared two mayors and two lobbyists on the same day.

Georgia – Ga. Governor Suspends Indicted Lawmaker Accused of Illegally Claiming Expense Pay

Columbus Republic – Kate Brumback (Associated Press) | Published: 11/13/2013

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal suspended state Sen. Don Balfour from office. A review committee recommended the action after a grand jury indicted Balfour on felony charges of illegally claiming legislative expense pay and double-billing the state and his private employer for some expenses. He previously agreed to pay a $5,000 fine issued by the Senate Ethics Committee for accepting pay for in-state work and travel on days when he was elsewhere.

Illinois – Rahm Emanuel to Propose Ordinance Forcing Contractors to Report Corruption

Chicago Sun Times – Fran Spielman | Published: 11/12/2013

Mayor Rahm Emanuel proposed a measure that would require city contractors to immediately report knowledge of corruption to Chicago’s inspector general or risk losing their contract. Emanuel’s office said the measure, if approved, would be incorporated into all future city contracts.

Illinois – Rauner’s $500,000 Donation to Lift Fundraising Limits in Gov. Race

Chicago Sun Times – Natasha Korecki and Dave McKinney | Published: 11/13/2013

Illinois gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner is adding $500,000 of his own money to his campaign, an amount that will trigger a provision allowing his opponents to raise unlimited amounts of cash. Under the law, candidates can only accept contributions of up to $5,300 from individuals and $52,600 from PACs. But those caps are lifted if any statewide candidate or member of the candidate’s immediate family donates or loans more than $250,000 to his or her campaign during the 12 months prior to an election.

Louisiana – Louisiana Ethics Board’s Focus on Small Offenses Lets Larger Violations Go Unnoticed, Observers Say

New Orleans Times Picayune – Lee Zurik (WVUE) and Manuel Torres | Published: 11/12/2013

Critics say the Louisiana Board of Ethics spends too much of its time going after candidates who file late, essentially ignoring more serious violations. Board of Ethics Administrator Kathleen Allen said her agency does not have enough personnel or a legal mandate to regularly audit even a small percentage of the thousands of campaign finance reports filed every year.

Massachusetts – Campaign Bill Would Order Fast Disclosure of Donors

Boston Globe – Michael Levenson | Published: 11/12/2013

Outside political committees pumped nearly $4 million into the Boston mayoral election this year, most of it to help elect Martin Walsh. But current law does not require those groups to reveal their donors until January. Secretary of State William Galvin and several lawmakers are preparing legislation that would require outside groups to disclose their donors in real time.

Minnesota – Minnesota Campaign Finance Regulators’ Database Isn’t Adding Up

Minneapolis Star Tribune – Glenn Howatt and Rachel Stassen-Berger | Published: 11/9/2013

An analysis by the Minneapolis Star Tribune shows online data from the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board are rife with mistakes, leading to errors that total as much as $20 million over the past decade. The flaws are enough to hamper any comprehensive attempt to examine the flow of political money in the state, at a time when that spending has soared to record heights.

New York – NY Democratic Committee’s Pro-Cuomo Ads Questioned as Skirting Lobbying Law, Public Disclosure

Columbus Republic; Associated Press –   | Published: 11/14/2013

Watchdogs contend television ads by the state Democratic Committee that urge residents to contact lawmakers in support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s ethics and jobs legislation violate New York’s lobbying law. The law requires those seeking to influence legislators be registered as lobbyists so they are publicly identified and disclose their funding and spending. Political parties and committees have long believed they were exempt.

Pennsylvania – Lobbyist Penalty Reforms Pass Pa. House

WHTM – Myles Snyder | Published: 11/13/2013

The Pennsylvania House unanimously approved a bill that would increase penalties for lobbyists who break the law. House Bill 744, which now moves to the Senate, would raise the maximum fine the state Ethics Commission can impose from $2,000 to $10,000, and it would up the current five-year ban on lobbying to 10 years, among other provisions.

Vermont – Democratic PAC Must Pay $30,000 Penalty

Burlington Free Press – Nancy Remsen | Published: 11/13/2013

Green Mountain Future, a PAC created by the Democratic Governors Association, will pay the state of Vermont a $20,000 civil penalty for not including its address on its website or television ads against Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Dubie during the 2010 campaign. The group also must pay $10,000 for not registering as a PAC or filing campaign finance reports.

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.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission issued four Informal Advisory Opinions pertaining to a state official’s receipt of complimentary event tickets. A state agency may have a legitimate state interest in giving an agency board member a ticket to an agency event. In that scenario the tickets are not considered “gifts” under Hawaii gift law. Rather, they are “state assets” and distribution must be evaluated in accordance with the fair treatment law under the State Ethics Code.

Agency board officials may accept two complimentary tickets per agency event – one for the official and the other for the official’s spouse or significant other. An official’s use of complimentary tickets for additional personal guests constitutes unfair compensation and is, therefore, prohibited. Moreover, transferring complimentary tickets to family members to attend events in the official’s place is also a likely violation of the fair treatment law.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“Lobbyists, Congress Partner for Local Food Drive” by Anna Giaritelli in Roll Call.

“Nominating Committee Makes 2014 Recommendations” from the American League of Lobbyists.

Canada: “Commissioner of Lobbying orders first lobbying ban ever” by Julius Melnitzer in the Financial Post.

Ohio: “Lobbyist known as ‘The Chief’ gets laughs — and respect — at Statehouse” by Joe Hallett in the Columbus Dispatch.

Pennsylvania: “Pennsylvania hires DC lobbyists with state ties” by Colby Itkowitz in The Morning Call.

Campaign Finance

California: “Hearing begins on campaign violation case against Sen. Berryhill” by Patrick McGreevy in The Los Angeles Times.

Colorado: “How to cut corporate, union influence on elections? DU panel has plan” by Ed Sealover in BizJournals.

Ohio: “Group calls for campaign finance reform” by Gary Seman, Jr. in This Week Community News.

Ethics

Alaska: “APOC asked to weigh in on independent campaign” by The Associated Press in the Anchorage Daily News.

Florida: “Sweetwater mayor, lobbyist to plead guilty” by Jay Weaver in the Miami Herald.

New York: “Ex-Bronx GOP boss pleads guilty in corruption case” by The Associated Press in the Times Union.

New York: “Critics say DAs should not lead campaign finance panel” by Yancey Roy in Newsday.

Utah: “Lawmakers Ready Bills Targeting Elections and Ethics in 2014” by Bryan Schott in Utah Policy.

Lobbying

“Bottom Line” in The Hill.

“Top Financial Lobbyist Exits” by Alan Zibel in The Wall Street Journal.

“Number of lobbyists taking jobs in Congress plummets” by Susan Davis in USA Today.

“Twitter’s handle on D.C. evolving” by Alex Byers in Politico.

Ottawa, Canada: “Lobbyist registry glitches being worked out, integrity commissioner says” by Derek Spalding in the Ottawa Citizen.

Ottawa, Canada: “Lobbyist registry ‘useful,’ watchdog reports” by Jon Willing in the Ottawa Sun.

Campaign Finance

“FEC poised to allow Bitcoin campaign donations” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“Bitcoins Could Prove to Be Windfall — or Bust — for Political Campaigns” by Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.

Massachusetts: “Campaign bill would order fast disclosure of donors” by Michael Levenson in The Boston Globe.

Michigan: “Michigan proposal would double limits on individual donations to political candidates” by Jonathan Oosting in MLive.com.

Minnesota: “Minnesota campaign finance regulators’ database isn’t adding up” by Glenn Howatt and Rachel E. Stassen-Berger in the Star Tribune.

Missouri: “Former Mo. Rep. McGeoghegan fined by Ethics Commission for 2012 campaign materials” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Montana: “Montana judge considers fine for political group as attorney asks to be removed” by Matt Gouras (Associated Press) in The Republic.

New Hampshire: “New Hampshire lawmaker may seek higher campaign spending limits” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

New York: “Refigure campaign financing” editorial by Cynthia DiBartolo in the Times Union.

Virginia: “Leftover campaign money can fund almost anything in Virginia” by Kathryn Watson in Watchdog.org.

Ethics

Alaska: “Legislative Ethics Committee Says Senator Hoffman Failed To Disclose Income” by Ben Matheson in Alaska Public Media.

Mississippi: “Newspaper wants ruling from Ethics Commission on emails” by The Associated Press in the Mississippi Business Journal.

Ohio: “Lack of oversight over JobsOhio raises concerns for ethics commission, auditor, now high court” by Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Elections

Iowa: “Libertarian Mayor in Iowa Re-Elected Despite His Wishes” by Richard Winger in Ballot Access News.

Ohio: “Libertarians file legal challenge against Ohio’s new rules for minor political parties; Greens may follow suit” by Jeremy Pelzer in The Plain Dealer.

Tech and Social Media

Pennsylvania: “Website redesign shines more light on Capitol” by Melissa Daniels in The Tribune-Review.

Virginia: “Going Beyond the Boundaries of the Obama Digital Model in Virginia” by Miranda Neubauer in TechPresident.

The Senate Select Committee held hearings to consider changes to the ethics complaint process. The ethics debate centered around deciding who should investigate and punish violations of the state ethics code. The committee also heard recommendations regarding gift and disclosure provisions.

The state inspector general advised lawmakers to adopt a policy of rejecting gifts over $50 and reform advocates support more comprehensive income disclosure laws for lawmakers. The committee will submit their recommendations on the ethics bill and amendment to the senate once the session resumes on January 14, 2014.

National:

G.O.P. Weighs Limiting Clout of Right Wing

New York Times – Jeremy Peters and Jonathan Martin | Published: 11/7/2013

Mainstream Republican Party leaders complain that more ideologically-driven conservatives are damaging the GOP with tactics like the government shutdown. They are pushing their party to rethink how it chooses nominees and advocating changes they say would result in the selection of less extreme candidates.

Federal:

Third Navy Official Arrested in Bribery Probe

Washington Post – Craig Whitlock | Published: 11/7/2013

A third U.S. Navy official, Commander Jose Sanchez, was charged with receiving bribes, including cash and prostitutes, from a contractor who provides port services for American ships in Southeast Asia. Another commander and a senior investigator for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service were arrested in September, likewise on charges of providing inside information to Glenn Defense Marine in exchange for favors.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Attorney Asks AZ Supreme Court to Reinstate Increased Campaign Donations

East Valley Tribune – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Service) | Published: 11/4/2013

Arizona’s Republican legislative leaders are asking the state Supreme Court to allow higher campaign contribution limits to be reinstated, citing confusion among candidates and donors. The filing is the latest in a legal volley over House Bill 2593, which raised contribution limits nearly 10-fold for candidates in all offices, from school board to governor.

California – California Donor Disclosure Case Exposes How Nonprofits Can Play in Politics

Washington Post – Matea Gold and Tom Hamburger | Published: 11/4/2013

New revelations in California provide a glimpse at one national network of nonprofit groups that helped move $15 million into ballot-initiative campaigns last fall while working hide the identities of their donors. Two conservative nonprofits were together fined a record $1 million, while two political committees were ordered to repay the state for $15 million in donations they received.

California – San Diego City Attorney Maneuvered to Force Filner from Office

Los Angeles Times – Tony Perry | Published: 11/3/2013

For six weeks, San Diego City Attorney Jan Goldsmith maneuvered to force then-Mayor Bob Filner out of office by squeezing him financially, bluffing him about state law, embarrassing him by releasing documents showing the anger of his staff, and threatening to force a trial on his alleged misuse of public funds. On the eve of a court hearing, Filner finally resigned.

Connecticut – State Parties Unable to Wean Themselves off Special Interest Money

The News Times – Neil Vigdor | Published: 11/2/2013

A loophole in Connecticut’s campaign finance law allows the state’s major political parties to accept money from contractors and lobbyists. It has drawn scrutiny since a California fundraising trip by Gov. Dannel Malloy, who is the subject of a complaint filed by the state Republican Party with the Election Enforcement Commission.

Florida – Lawmakers-Turned-Lobbyists Help Tip Scales for Large Lobbying Firms

St. Augustine Record – Matt Dixon (Morris News Services) | Published: 11/4/2013

Florida’s lobbying corps includes former governors, agency heads, House and Senate leaders, and lawmakers and executive branch officials. Opponents say the practice amounts to elected officials and agency staff using taxpayer-funded jobs to later cash in on high-paying lobbying positions. Lobbying firms say former insiders are needed to help clients navigate a complex state government.

Florida – Tallahassee Lobbyists Won’t Be Audited until 2015

Orlano Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 11/4/2013

A Florida legislative committee adopted rules for the long-delayed auditing of lobbyists’ financial reports. Sen. Joe Abruzzo said no reviews will be done next year but auditors will begin studying the 2014 reports in 2015. The draft guidelines allow for lobbying firms to keep some documentation confidential, but also will allow lawmakers critical of the mandate to repeal it during the next legislative session.

Kentucky – Richie Farmer’s Sister Gets Five Years’ Probation

Louisville Courier-Journal – Mike Wynn | Published: 11/1/2013

Rhonda Monroe, the sister of former Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer, received five years’ probation for her role in a campaign finance scheme that allowed her brother to take money from his 2007 re-election fund. Monroe was accused of using her position as assistant executive director of the state Registry of Election Finance to help Farmer pocket leftover campaign cash with phony expense claims.

Louisiana – Louisiana’s Top 400 Campaign Donors Get Around Legal Limits to Magnify Political Influence

New Orleans Times Picayune – Lee Zurik (WVUE) and Manuel Torres | Published: 11/6/2013

Searching the mountain of state and local records, reporters identified hundreds of donors who gave from tens of thousands of dollars to more than $1 million to campaigns across Louisiana in the four years that ended in 2012. The journalists said the records show wealthy special interests and businesses are able to magnify their influence through loopholes, lax enforcement, and weak penalties to take advantage of the system.

Nevada – Nevada Judge Dismisses Suit against AFP

San Francisco Chronicle – Sandra Chereb (Associated Press) | Published: 11/6/2013

A District Court judge ruled Americans for Prosperity was not required to register with the state or file contribution reports as argued in the civil lawsuit filed by Nevada Secretary of State Ross Miller. The group is funded by conservative billionaires Charles and David Koch.

New York – New York City Takes Left Turn

Wall Street Journal – Sophia Hollander | Published: 11/6/2013

Political analysts say the election of Democrat Bill de Blasio as mayor of New York City could become the biggest test yet of a recent revival of liberalism in American political life that is occurring in urban areas. In 2000, Republicans led five of the nation’s largest dozen cities. By the end of 2012, they no longer led any.

Oklahoma – Oklahoma Lawmakers Question Conduct after Convictions

Seattle Post-Intelligencer – Tim Talley (Associated Press) | Published: 11/2/2013

Last year, former Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tem Mike Morgan was convicted of taking a $12,000 bribe in exchange for his influence on legislation. This year, state Rep. Randy Terrill was convicted of offering a legislative colleague a state job in exchange for her promise not to seek re-election. Lawmakers are considering whether the way they conduct the people’s business and the multiple prosecutions will chill legislative debate and action.

South Carolina – State House for Sale: Big businesses pay off in jobs, political contributions

The State – Jeff Wilkinson | Published: 11/2/2013

Scores of companies have donated to the campaigns of individual South Carolina candidates in a melding of corporate money and public policy that is banned in 21 states and in federal elections. Corporate officials say those contributions are not an effort to buy legislative votes on a particular issue. Watchdogs maintain corporate donations are just the tip of the iceberg in a political system that favors big business over others.

Texas – Candidates to Lead Texas Accept Meals, Gifts, More from Lobbyists

Dallas Morning News – Christy Hoppe | Published: 11/2/2013

All of the major candidates for governor and lieutenant governor in Texas have, to varying degrees, kept company with lobbyists, show dozens of disclosure reports examined by The Dallas Morning News. In the last five years, they have received tens of thousands of dollars worth of meals, gifts, and help holding campaign fundraisers, all from representatives of companies and industries with major business before the state.

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

“Chamber Hill Strategies hires new ‘political muscle’” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

Minnesota: “Hey, big spenders: Minnesota reports on 2012 spending on lobbying” by Rachel E. Stassen-Berger in the Star Tribune.

Campaign Finance

Illinois: “Feds send warning letter to Jackson Jr. over campaign fund” by Katherine Skiba in the Chicago Tribune.

Louisiana: “Louisiana law silent on whether candidates must return illegal contributions” by Manuel Torres in The Times-Picayune.

Louisiana: “Bobby Jindal’s political appointees have showered his campaign with cash” by Manuel Torres in The Times-Picayune.

Michigan: “Bill would double campaign donor limits in Michigan” by Paul Egan in the Detroit Free Press.

Minnesota: “Independence question vexes Minn. campaign board” by The Associated Press in the Crookston Times.

Ethics

Missouri: “Mo. state representative faces stealing, finance charges” by Aja J Williams on KSDK News.

Elections

Ohio: “Ohio legislature passes new ballot-access rules for minor political parties; Libertarians promise lawsuit” by Jeremy Pelzer in The Plain Dealer.

Texas: “May 10 date for Texas Senate race special election” by The Associated Press in the Houston Chronicle.

Redistricting

“Kentucky lawmakers disagree on which districts they represent” by Jack Brammer in the Lexington Herald-Leader.

Lobbying

“Lobbing World” in The Hill.

“Bottom Line” in The Hill.

“TechAmerica Lobbyists Jump Ship for Rival Outfit” by Brian Heaton in Government Technology.

Campaign Finance

“Secret Persuasion: How Big Campaign Donors Stay Anonymous” by Peter Overby, Viveca Novak, and Robert Maguire on NPR.

“From Social Welfare Groups, A River Of Political Influence” by Peter Overby, Viveca Novak, and Robert Maguire on NPR.

“‘Unobtainium’ and the blurry lines of campaign finance law” by Matea Gold in The Washington Post.

“The Dirty Business Of Tax-Exempt Campaign Money Laundries” by Howard Gleckman in Forbes.

Arizona: “State Supreme Court asked to restore increased campaign contributions” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Star.

Louisiana: “Database: Search Louisiana campaign finance contributions” by Dmitriy Pritykin, in The Times-Picayune.

Louisiana: “Louisiana’s top 400 campaign donors get around legal limits to magnify political influence” by Manuel Torres in The Times-Picayune.

Massachusetts: “Attorney General Martha Coakley’s campaign funds in disarray” by Frank Phillips in The Telegraph.

Minnesota: “Campaign Finance Questions Still Unanswered” by The Associated Press in KAAL TV News.

Ethics

“Twitter IPO Makes House Ethics Nervous” by Matt Fuller in Roll Call.

Tech and Social Media

“What NASA Can Teach the Rest of Government About Using Social Media” by Mark Micheli in Government Executive.

On November 4, in response to a court decision enjoining the Texas Ethics Commission from enforcing parts of the Election Code, the Ethics Commission released guidance concerning independent expenditure-only PACs.

The commission acknowledged restrictions on independent expenditures from independent expenditure-only PACs, referred to in the state as “direct campaign expenditure only committees,” are currently unenforceable under the October 16, 2013, ruling in Texans for Free Enterprise v. Texas Ethics Commission.

The commission requires independent expenditure-only PACs submit a sworn statement stating the committee intends to act exclusively as a direct campaign expenditure only committee in accordance with Texans for Free Enterprise and the committee will not use its funds to make contributions to candidates for elective office, officeholders, or political committees supporting or opposing candidates or assisting officeholders.

The commission also made available sample template political committees may use to submit their sworn statements

Lobbying

“Lobby firm brings on Obama aide” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

California: “FPPC fines ex-lawmaker Mike Roos for improper contributions” by Laurel Rosenhall in The Sacramento Bee.

Florida: “Tallahassee lobbyists won’t be audited until 2015” by Aaron Deslatte in the Orlando Sentinel.

Campaign Finance

California: “Assemblyman Alejo to return $21,092 in excess campaign contributions” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.

Ethics

“Hacking Attempts on Federal Election Commisison Website” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

California: “Ex-Senate leader Dean Florez faces fines for misusing campaign funds” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.

Florida: “Suspend ethics commission, state audit committee tells Palm Beach County” by Jennifer Sorentrue in the Palm Beach Post.

Massachusetts: “Massachusetts: State Ethics Commission conflict plan could have ‘huge effect on towns’” by Andy Metzger in The Republican.

Elections

“Roll Call’s 10 Most Vulnerable House Members Revealed” by Shira T. Center and Emily Cahn and Abby Livingston in Roll Call.

Alabama: “Alabama Special Election Is Proxy Battle for National GOP” by Emily Cahn in Roll Call.

Mississippi: “3 special elections for House seats Tuesday” by The Associated Press in the Sun Herald.

South Carolina: “Dozens of cities are holding elections in SC” by The Associated Press in GoUpstate.com.

Redistricting

Alaska: “Redistricting board withdraws request for delay” by The Associated Press in the Anchorage Daily News.

Lobbying

“Cooley-Dow Lohnes merger leaves lobbyists out” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post.

“Hotel trade group shakes up lobby team” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Alabama: “Bill aims to discourage lawmakers from departing for lobbying positions” by Brian Lyman in the Montgomery Advertiser.

Florida: “As lawmakers consider audits, documents show how lawmakers-turned-lobbyists help tip the scales for large lobbying firms” by Matt Dixon in The Florida Time-Union.

Texas: “Candidates to lead Texas accept meals, gifts, more from lobbyists” by Christy Hoppe in The Dallas Morning News.

Campaign Finance

California: “Disgorgement Fight Could Shape Dark Money’s Future in CA” by Ben Adler in Capital Public Radio.

California: “California probe of campaign donations sheds light on ‘dark money’” by Chris Megerian and Anthony York in the Los Angeles Times.

Washington: “Washington elections draw big out-of-state donations” by Brian M. Rosenthal in The Spokesman-Review.

Ethics

California: “Gifts and elected officials” by Bennett Kessler in Sierra Wave.

New York: “JCOPE leader ballot splits commission 9-5” by James M. Odato in the Times Union.

South Carolina: “State House for Sale: Big businesses pay off in jobs, political contributions” by Jeff Wilkinson in The State.

Elections

“Federal Election Commission Lists 2014 Election Dates” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Iowa: “Koch Group Has Ambitions in Small Races” by John Eligon in The New York Times.

New York: “N.Y. to run voter hotline on Election Day” by The Associated Press in the Times Union.

Federal:

Michelle Obama Policy Initiatives Are a Big Deal for Big Business

Politico – Byron Tau and Helena Bottemiller Evich | Published: 10/30/2013

First lady Michelle Obama’s two signature policy initiatives, the Let’s Move! childhood obesity effort and the veteran-focused Joining Forces, have earned her bipartisan praise. Those efforts have been developed in close cooperation with some of K Street and corporate America’s biggest players that stand to benefit from the exposure, public goodwill generated from being involved in a public health or charitable effort, or the policy itself.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – California State Sen. Ron Calderon Accepted $88,000 in Bribes, FBI Affidavit Alleges

Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 10/30/2013

California Sen. Ron Calderon allegedly accepted about $88,000 in bribes from an undercover FBI agent during an elaborate sting operation. An affidavit, filed as the FBI sought a search warrant for Calderon’s office, alleges he worked with interest groups in a “pay-to-play” fashion, accepting money in exchange for promises to carry or amend legislation to their benefit.

California – Critics Howl over Lobbyist Walking Governor’s Dog

San Francisco Chronicle – Carla Manucci | Published: 10/24/2013

Some are questioning whether Jennifer Fearing, senior state director for the Humane Society of the United States, has turned her role as regular walker of California Gov. Jerry Brown’s dog into an effective way to lobby the state’s chief executive on animal rights issues. Fearing had a perfect record this legislative season in getting bills signed by Brown, placing her in the ranks of Sacramento’s most effective lobbyists.

California – L.A. Moves to Boost Limits on Gifts to Lawmakers

Los Angeles Times – Steve Zahniser | Published: 10/25/2013

The Los Angeles Ethics Commission sent the city council its recommendation for new and more stringent limits on gifts to the city officials, part of a much larger package of rule changes. But when the council took up the proposal recently, they sought an increase, not a decrease, in the size of allowable gifts from bidders, contractors, and others with a financial stake in a city decision.

Colorado – Group Tests New Tactic with Ethics Complaint against Gov. Hickenlooper

Denver Post – Lynn Bartels | Published: 10/31/2013

Some groups are using ethics complaints to impugn the integrity of candidates in Colorado, even when the complaint is found to be without merit. The move has attracted bipartisan criticism.

Florida – Lobbyist Watch: Superlobbyist Platt’s “Rules for Successful Lobbying”

South Florida Sentinel – Brittany Wallman | Published: 10/29/2013

Broward County lobbyist George Platt has come up with guidelines for being successful in the influence industry. “Somehow the list grows as time passes … [there are] too many who lack a moral compass trying to become lobbyists; unlike some professions, there is no set of qualifications for entry,” said Platt.

Iowa – Big Campaign Group Gets Involved in Tiny Iowa Race

Business Week – Ryan Foley (Associated Press) | Published: 10/31/2013

Americans for Prosperity, the organization backed by the billionaire Koch brothers, has jumped into the municipal election in Coralville, Iowa and turned it into a referendum on government spending and borrowing. Residents of the town, with a population of 19,000, say they have never seen such an outside effort in a local vote, let alone by a conservative group in the state’s most Democratic county.

Iowa – Iowa Senate Ethics Rule Protects the ‘First-in-the-Nation’ Franchise

Quad City Times – James Lynch | Published: 10/24/2013

State Senate Ethics Committee Chairperson Wally Horn said the chamber’s rule prohibiting senators from being paid staffers of campaigns and PACs is there to protect the franchise of Iowa’s first-in-the-nation presidential caucuses. Other states that closely follow Iowa in the nomination process do not seem to share Horn’s concern, however.

Nevada

Embattled Nevada Assemblyman Jim Wheeler Urged to Resign after Slavery Comment

Reno Gazette-Journal – Sandra Chereb (Associated Press) | Published: 10/30/2013

A YouTube video surfaced of an event at which Nevada Assemblyperson Jim Wheeler said he would vote to allow slavery if that was the desire of his constituents. He said he believes it is his job to represent those who elected him regardless of his own beliefs. “If that’s what they wanted, I’d have to hold my nose … they’d probably have to hold a gun to my head, but yeah,” said Wheeler.

Nevada – Public Policy Maker or Private Lobbyist? 10 State Officials Play Dual Roles

Las Vegas Sun – Andrew Doughman | Published: 10/27/2013

Disclosure reports filed with the Nevada Commission on Ethics detail how legislators and members of state boards and commissions often get paid to do business before state agencies, boards, and commissions. Their elected or appointed positions likely enable them to build relationships and gain expertise useful in their private enterprise, a fact recognized by lawmakers when they passed a disclosure law in 1991.

New Mexico – Report Examines NM Lobbyists’ Largesse

Albuquerque Journal – Deborah Baker | Published: 10/31/2013

A report from New Mexico Common Cause said spending on lobbying “plays an influential role” in state lawmakers’ votes. Common Cause had several recommendations for regulating lobbyists, including requiring more specific information on disclosure reports and limits on their cumulative campaign donations.

New York – Turmoil in Ethics Hiring

Albany Times Union – James Odato | Published: 10/29/2013

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics hired Letizia Tagliafierro as its new executive director during a closed door meeting. In the brief public part of the meeting, commission member Ellen Yaroshefsky proposed what she called an independent search for an executive director. Yaroshefsky later resigned from the panel.

Oklahoma – Ex-Okla. Lawmaker Guilty in Bribery Trial

BusinessWeek – Tim Talley (Associated Press) | Published: 10/30/2013

Former Oklahoma Rep. Randy Terrill has been convicted of bribery. Prosecutors alleged Terrill offered to put former Democratic Sen. Debbe Leftwich in an $80,000-a-year job at the state medical examiner’s office if she would agree to not seek re-election in 2010 so a Republican, Rep. Mike Christian, could run for her open seat.

South Dakota – Power Shift Sought in Pierre: Governor’s office has been dominating legislative process

Sioux Fall Argus Leader – David Montgomery | Published: 10/30/2013

South Dakota legislative have begun looking for ways to strengthen their voice in state policy debates. Compared to the executive branch, with a full-time governor and his or her year-round staff, along with myriad state employees, South Dakota’s part-time citizen Legislature has fewer resources, less information, and less time to tackle problems.

Virginia – McAuliffe’s Wealth Could Create Conflicts of Interest

The Virginian-Pilot – Julian Walker | Published: 10/31/2013

If Terry McAuliffe becomes Virginia’s next governor, his business interests could trigger conflicts-of-interest. His campaign says his investments would go into a blind trust, but Republicans remain skeptical, given their view of McAuliffe’s history as a political financier with interests they say could intersect with a governor’s duties.

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On October 28, U.S. Rep. Darrell Issa introduced a bill dealing with federal vendor suspensions and debarment.

The Stop Unworthy Spending Act (SUSPEND Act), House Resolution 4435, establishes a Board of Suspension with the General Services Administration for purposes of serving as a centralized body to manage and improve all executive agency suspension and debarment activities. The bill terminates any suspension and debarment office or functions in other executive agencies effective October 1, 2016 but it does allow for some exceptions.

“While the vast majority of contractors and grantees fulfill their obligations, the SUSPEND Act streamlines the procedures for dealing with the ones that do not,” said Issa in a House Oversight Committee press release.

The legislation provides $2 million dollars for each fiscal year from 2015 to 2021 to carry out the functions of the newly created Board.