January 15, 2014 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
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 […]
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.
January 14, 2014 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
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 […]
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.
January 13, 2014 •
Monday News Roundup
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 […]
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.
January 10, 2014 •
South Carolina Senate Committee Recommends Ethics Reform
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 […]
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.
January 10, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – January 10, 2014
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 […]
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.
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.
January 9, 2014 •
Thursday News Roundup
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 […]
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.
January 8, 2014 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “The State of K Street” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call. “Bitcoin Woos Washington to Ensure Lawmakers Don’t Kill It” by Julie Bykowicz and Carter Dougherty in Bloomberg Politics. New York City, NY: “New York City Imposes New Rules […]
Lobbying
“The State of K Street” by Kate Ackley in Roll Call.
“Bitcoin Woos Washington to Ensure Lawmakers Don’t Kill It” by Julie Bykowicz and Carter Dougherty in Bloomberg Politics.
New York City, NY: “New York City Imposes New Rules To Increase Registration of, and Reporting by, Lobbyists” by Laurence A. Levy in the National Law Review.
Campaign Finance
“Does Bitcoin Have a Future in Politics?” by Tom Moroney and Peter Robison in Bloomberg Businessweek.
“Facebook PAC Corrects Excessive Contributions to Senators” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.
Arkansas: “Darr says he won’t resign; legislative leaders say impeachment likely” in Arkansas News.
California: “Current, former lawmakers cited for alleged campaign violations” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.
Minnesota: “More errors turn up in Minnesota political campaign finance data” by Rachel E. Stassen-Berger and Glenn Howatt in the Star Tribune.
Minnesota: “Minn. campaign board finalizes Senate DFL case” by Brian Bakst (Associated Press) in The Kansas City Star.
Utah: “Flagged Bill: HB 235 – Campaign Contributions Amendments, Rep. Powell” by Curtis Haring in Utah Political Watch.
Vermont: “State Revising, Raising Campaign Finance Limits” by Taylor Dobbs in Vermont Public Radio.
Vermont: “VPIRG: Higher contribution limits weaken campaign finance bill” by Anne Galloway in VTDigger.org.
Ethics
Knoxville County, TN: “Ethics Committee chairwoman looking to expand role of panel” by Gerald Witt in the Knoxville News.
State Legislatures
Mississippi: “Lawmakers back in session” by Emily Wagster Pettus (Associated Press) in the Clarion Ledger.
Missouri: “Missouri Legislature to convene amid election-year pressures” by Virginia Young in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
New Hampshire: “N.H. Legislature to convene 2014 session today” by Norma Love (Associated Press) in the Concord Monitor.
Vermont: “Vermont Legislature jumps right in to start session” by Terri Hallenbeck and Nancy Remsen in the Burlington Free Press.
Virginia: “General Assembly returns to divided government” by Jim Nolan in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Redistricting
Montana: “New battle lines drawn for legislative races” by Tom Lutey in the Billings Gazette.
Government Tech and Social Media
Alaska: “Juneau developing social media policy” by The Associated Press in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.
Massachusetts: “Mass. big data centralized on a new website” by Callum Borchers in The Boston Globe.
January 7, 2014 •
Rhode Island Lobbyists Online Registration and Reporting System Updated
Today, the LobbyTracker system used for Rhode Island lobbyist and employer registrations and reports has been updated at the state’s Secretary of State’s online lobbyist information portal. Among the updates is the allowance for authorized users. An authorized user is […]
Today, the LobbyTracker system used for Rhode Island lobbyist and employer registrations and reports has been updated at the state’s Secretary of State’s online lobbyist information portal.
Among the updates is the allowance for authorized users. An authorized user is someone who is given permission by the primary contact to file reports and register lobbyists on his or her behalf. This person may also serve as the authorized user for more than one entity, firm, or lobbyist.
Additionally, email addresses will now be used for login names. Only one email address is allowed per lobbyist, firm, or entity with the exception of one email address for either a firm and lobbyist, or an entity and lobbyist. An entity and firm may not share an email, nor may several lobbyists share one email address.
All 2013 reports will continue to be filed in the previous LobbyTracker system.
January 7, 2014 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Lobbying “Bottom Line” in The Hill. “Snapchat hires lobbyists for the first time” by Kate Tummarello in The Hill. Washington: “Bill would make it easier to track lobbyist giving” by Ralph Schwartz in the Bellingham Herald. Campaign Finance “Caution – […]
Lobbying
“Bottom Line” in The Hill.
“Snapchat hires lobbyists for the first time” by Kate Tummarello in The Hill.
Washington: “Bill would make it easier to track lobbyist giving” by Ralph Schwartz in the Bellingham Herald.
Campaign Finance
“Caution – Creative Campaign Bookkeeping in Progress” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.
Arizona: “Lawmaker wants voters to repeal public campaign funding” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Star.
Colorado: “Colorado GOP looks to establish expenditure committee free of limits” by Kurtis Lee in the Denver Post.
Minnesota: “Minn. campaign board taking new look at Senate DFL” by The Associated Press in the Sun Herald.
Ethics
California: “California campaign ethics watchdog marks record year” by Christopher Cadelago in the Sacramento Bee.
Hawaii: “A New Era in Ethics in Honolulu? Time Will Tell” by Nick Grube in the Honolulu Civil Beat.
Missouri: “Rowden bill would limit lobbyist gifts to legislators” by Rudi Keller in the Columbia Daily Tribune.
Virginia: “Va. House members broker ethics reform deal” by Julian Walker in The Virginian-Pilot.
Virginia: “Virginia lawmakers detail ethics reform plans” by Rachel Weiner in The Washington Post.
Elections
Arkansas: “Early voting to begin in special election for state Senate seat” in the Arkansas News Bureau.
State Legislatures
California: “California 2014 legislative session kicks off with new faces, old scandal” by Jeremy B. White and Laurel Rosenhall in the Sacramento Bee.
January 6, 2014 •
Virginia Gubernatorial Inauguration January 11
The inauguration for Virginia Governor-Elect Terry McAuliffe will be held Saturday, January 11, 2014 in Capitol Square in Richmond Virginia. The day will begin with a prayer breakfast, followed by the inauguration ceremony, parade, executive mansion open house, and the […]
The inauguration for Virginia Governor-Elect Terry McAuliffe will be held Saturday, January 11, 2014 in Capitol Square in Richmond Virginia. The day will begin with a prayer breakfast, followed by the inauguration ceremony, parade, executive mansion open house, and the Richmond Inaugural Ball. More information is available at http://www.inauguration2014.com/.
Virginia does not place any limits on the source or amount of political contributions or gifts, including to inaugural committees. Contributions to inaugural committees are not required to be reported on lobbying reports.
Photo of Virginia Governor-Elect Terry McAuliffe courtesy of Edward Kimmel on Wikimedia Commons.
January 6, 2014 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying “Lobbyists cash in on do-nothing Congress” by Anna Palmer and Byron Tau in Politico. “9 websites you use regularly that are lobbying Congress” by Amber Phillips in the San Jose Mercury News. “Yelp Inc. Registers For Lobbying and Forms […]
Lobbying
“Lobbyists cash in on do-nothing Congress” by Anna Palmer and Byron Tau in Politico.
“9 websites you use regularly that are lobbying Congress” by Amber Phillips in the San Jose Mercury News.
“Yelp Inc. Registers For Lobbying and Forms PAC” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.
Idaho: “Business lobbyists ready legislative wish lists” by Zach Kyle in the Idaho Statesman.
Washington: “Lobbyist freebies on legislative agenda” by Brad Shannon in The Olympian.
Campaign Finance
“Congressman Accepts Bitcoins While FEC Doesnʹt” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.
“New Super PAC Registers With Bitcoin Receiving Addresses” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.
Arkansas: “Ethics chief says Darr skipped campaign finance training” by John Lyon in KATV News.
Ethics
Missouri: “Missouri’s no-limit legislature stokes debate over ethics reform” by Jason Hancock in the Kansas City Star.
North Carolina: “Ethics Commission appointments made” by Craig Jarvis in the News & Observer.
Wyoming: “Conservative Wyoming group battles Federal Election Commission over election law” by Kyle Roerink in the Casper Star-Tribune.
Congress
“3 Reasons Congressʹ Year Might Start Unexpectedly Strong” by David Hawkings in Roll Call.
In the State Legislatures
“Nearly 2,400 state lawmakers return to work this week” by Niraj Cokshi in The Washington Post.
“Interactive: State of the States 2014” by Melissa Maynard in Governing.
“Governors, Lawmakers Return to Capitols With an Eye on November” by Daniel C. Vock in Governing.
Indiana: “State lawmakers face packed agenda” by Dan Carden in Northwest Indiana Times.
Iowa: “Iowa Legislature’s 2014 session to be shaped by epic political year” by Jason Noble and William Petroski in the Des Moines Register.
Kentucky: “Kentucky legislative session comes with political, fiscal shackles” by Tom Loftus in the Courier Journal.
Maryland: “Md. legislative session overshadowed by election year politics” by John Wagner in The Washington Post.
Mississippi: “What do lawmakers see as top issues for 2014 session?” by Ed Kemp in the Hattiesburg American.
Mississipi: “Analysis: US Senate race will impact Miss. Session” by Emily Wagster Pettus (Associated Press) in the Hattiesburg American.
Missouri: “Mid-Missouri legislators preparing for new session” by Bob Watson in the News Tribune.
North Carolina: “Lawmakers ponder how to fill midterm N.C., U.S. legislative openings” by Gary D. Robertson in the Charlotte Observer.
Rhode Island: “R.I. General Assembly: A look ahead at the key issues of 2014” by Katherine Gregg, Philip Marcelo, and Randal Edgar in the Providence Journal.
South Carolina: “SC politicsʹ welcome back starts this week” by Andrew Shain in The State.
Government Tech and Social Media
Rhode Island: “Political Scene: High tech comes to R.I. General Assembly” by Philip Marcelo, Katherine Gregg and Randal Edgar in the Providence Journal.
Washington: “Access Washington Website Dealing With Outages” in Government Technology.
January 3, 2014 •
Proposed Changes in Canadian Lobbying Laws
If you’re planning to lobby north of the border, there are a number of changes on the horizon you should be aware of. This fall saw quite a bit of activity for Canadian lobbying legislation, with two provinces introducing laws […]
If you’re planning to lobby north of the border, there are a number of changes on the horizon you should be aware of. This fall saw quite a bit of activity for Canadian lobbying legislation, with two provinces introducing laws to create a lobbyist registration framework and one making substantial changes to its existing law.
Saskatchewan’s Lobbyist Act would create a registrar of lobbyists, provide requirements for filing returns, which is the Canadian term for the filing for both registrations and reports, and establish definitions and penalties. The act also provides for online filing of returns. The legislation is based on the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice issued in 2012.
Similarly, New Brunswick’s Lobbyists Registration Act establishes a basic framework for filing returns and penalties for violations. Prior attempts at creating a lobbyist registry failed in both 2007 and 2011. Saskatchewan and New Brunswick are two of the last three Canadian provinces without lobbying laws; the three Canadian territories also do not have lobbying laws. Both governments cited a desire for providing more transparency for their citizens as the impetus for the legislation.
Ontario introduced an Act to Amend the Lobbyists Registration Act, giving a new definition for grassroots lobbying, giving more specificity on what constitutes an undertaking to lobby, requiring in-house lobbyists to file monthly reports if the lobbying is directed at a high level public office holder, and adding a requirement to report campaign contributions made under the Election Finances Act. Additional changes include revolving door restrictions and changes to penalties. The bill is currently in the Standing Committee on Regulations and Private Bills.
January 3, 2014 •
Ask the Experts – Disclosure of Corporate Political Contributions
Q. When must direct corporate political contributions be disclosed? A. At least 15 states require some sort of corporate contribution disclosure, whether it be on a campaign finance statement or lobbyist/employer disclosure report. Campaign finance reports typically require an annual […]
Q. When must direct corporate political contributions be disclosed?
A. At least 15 states require some sort of corporate contribution disclosure, whether it be on a campaign finance statement or lobbyist/employer disclosure report.
Campaign finance reports typically require an annual aggregate threshold be exceeded before a report is triggered. For example, in Utah, direct corporate contributions must exceed $750 in the aggregate per calendar year before a report is required. In Georgia, the threshold is $25,000. In Nebraska, a corporation making more than $250 in direct corporate contributions must file a report within 10 days after the end of the calendar month in which the contribution is made.
Conversely, lobbying reports typically start at “dollar one.” In New Mexico, lobbyists are required to report all political contributions made by the employer, regardless of amount. The same holds true in South Carolina and New Hampshire.
And then there’s California—a hybrid of both campaign finance and lobbying disclosure. Direct corporate contributions must exceed $10,000 in the aggregate per calendar year before a campaign finance report is due. However, until this threshold is exceeded, corporate political contributions must be disclosed on the lobbyist employer’s quarterly report.
As always, the best practice is to track all corporate political contributions in the event disclosure is required. Likewise, you need to familiarize yourself with the reporting requirements in those jurisdictions where your company is making contributions.
You can directly submit questions for this feature, and we will select those most appropriate and answer them here. Send your questions to: marketing@stateandfed.com.
(We are always available to answer questions from clients that are specific to your needs, and we encourage you to continue to call or e-mail us with questions about your particular company or organization. As always, we will confidentially and directly provide answers or information you need.) Our replies to your questions are not legal advice. Instead, these replies represent our analysis of laws, rules, and regulations.
January 3, 2014 •
News You Can Use Digest – January 3, 2014
National: Social Conservatives Make Big Money Plans Politico – Kenneth Vogel | Published: 1/2/2014 The religious right’s wealthiest backers and top operatives plan to elevate the place of social issues like abortion and gay marriage in conservative politics. […]
National:
Social Conservatives Make Big Money Plans
Politico – Kenneth Vogel | Published: 1/2/2014
The religious right’s wealthiest backers and top operatives plan to elevate the place of social issues like abortion and gay marriage in conservative politics. They have been largely relegated to the sidelines as the business wing of the Republican Party establishment wages a bitter and expensive struggle against the tea party for the soul of the GOP.
Federal:
Lines Blur When Lobbyists Invest in Industries They Represent
Wall Street Journal – Brody Mullins, James Grimaldi, and Rebecca Ballhaus | Published: 12/26/2013
Through continual contact with public officials, lobbyists often glean intimate knowledge of pending policy changes and political activities that affect the fortunes of companies or industries they represent. Many also hold investments that overlap with their responsibilities, according to a review of public records. It showed about one in five lobbyists whose holdings could be identified had invested in their clients or companies in the industries they are concerned with.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arkansas – Ark. Lt. Gov. Rebuffs Calls to Resign amid Scandal
San Francisco Chronicle – Chuck Bartels (Associated Press) | Published: 12/31/2013
Arkansas Lt. Gov. Mark Darr, who said he would settle with his state Ethics Commission amid findings that he repeatedly broke campaign finance laws, defied mounting calls for his resignation, including one from Gov. Mike Beebe, and said he intended to remain in office. Darr has agreed to pay $11,000 in fines to settle the complaints.
California – Ex-Employee Accuses Lobbying Firm of Directing Illegal Contributions
Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy and Paige St. John | Published: 12/26/2013
A lawsuit filed by former Sloat Higgins Jensen & Associates employee Rhonda Smira alleges owner Kevin Sloat and his firm directed illegal campaign contributions and unreported gifts to dozens of California lawmakers. Smira said she was ordered not to provide receipts for the gifts; that way, recipients could avoid disclosing the transactions on reports required by the state. The lawsuit says Sloat told her: “If I don’t report and there is no written record, and they don’t report it, then it didn’t happen.”
Georgia – Georgia Officials Take Lobbyist Gifts before New Rules
Augusta Chronicle – Ray Henry (Associated Press) | Published: 12/30/2013
Lobbyists splurged on gifts to Georgia lawmakers before restrictions took effect on January 1. Gov. Nathan Deal signed the new rules on May 6. While the state’s political leaders supported an end to unlimited lobbyist spending, the old system remained legal until New Year’s Day. Several politicians accepted gifts during this delay that would be illegal, or at least questionable, once the new restrictions start. Some questions about the law remain unresolved until the ethics commission creates rules interpreting the new law, a process that could take months.
Massachusetts – Teachers Union Revealed as Funder behind Pro-Walsh PAC
Boston Globe – Wesley Lowery | Published: 12/28/2013
The American Federation of Teachers was behind the last-minute, $480,000 advertising push on behalf of Boston Mayor-elect Martin Walsh, even though it was billed as the work of a start-up PAC dubbed One Boston. No information was disclosed at the time about One Boston’s ideological loyalties or donors, angering watchdog groups who had already been critical of the unprecedented amount of outside money that was flowing into the race, which ultimately became the state’s most expensive municipal contest ever.
Michigan – Gov. Snyder Signs Law to Double Michigan Campaign Contribution Limits, Codify ‘Issue Ad’ Rules
MLive.com – Jonathan Oosting | Published: 12/27/2013
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed a bill doubling the state’s campaign contribution limits. The law includes a provision designed to thwart efforts by Secretary of State Ruth Johnson to reveal who pays for issue ads that have become increasingly influential in campaigns. Snyder said the law also increases transparency by requiring candidates to file additional campaign finance reports with the state during years in which they are not up for election.
Minnesota – Minnesota Political Spending Concentrated in Few Hands
Minneapolis Star Tribune – Rachel Stassen-Berger and Glen Howatt | Published: 12/30/2013
The Minneapolis Star Tribune found just three dozen individuals or entities have contributed more than $27 million to PACs and independent expenditure committees over the past three election cycles. The analysis shows the donations heavily favored Democrats. Minnesota Republicans acknowledged Democrats have benefited from superior organization, a more energized base, and campaign finance rules that make it easier for unions to donate.
Missouri – Missouri Lawmaker Wants Political Consultants to Stay Out of Policymaking
Kansas City Star – Dave Helling | Published: 12/24/2013
Missouri Sen. John Lamping filed an ethics reform bill that would prohibit consultants from working as lobbyists, and lobbyists from working as consultants. Lamping said operatives who help elect candidates should not be able to turn around and work for special-interest clients to influence those lawmakers, as is now routinely the case.
New York – Bratton Gives Revolving Door One More Spin
New York Times – J. David Goodman | Published: 12/23/2013
A “revolving door” between government service and the corporate world has long been a feature of politics, and police officials often pursue second careers after hanging up their uniforms. But few have done so with William Bratton’s scope. His return to New York City for a second tour as police commissioner may create an awkward situation. Bratton sits on the boards of two companies who hope to do business with the city, and is a senior adviser to a third.
North Carolina – New NC Law Increases Donation Limits, Curtails Some Disclosure in 2014
Raleigh News & Observer – John Frank | Published: 12/26/2013
North Carolina joined at least eight others states pushing for increases in campaign contribution limits this year. Starting January 1, state candidates and PACs can take maximum contributions of $5,000 per election. The top donation to judicial candidates will leap to the same level from the current $1,000 cap. The new law also weakens rules about what outside groups, such as nonprofits, issue advocacy organizations, and super PACs, must disclose.
South Carolina – S.C. Ethics Commission Owed $2.5 Million in Fines
Charleston Post & Courier – Seanna Adcox (Associated Press) | Published: 1/1/2014
Candidates, lobbyists, and committees owe nearly $2.5 million in fines to the South Carolina Ethics Commission. Under state law, individuals are fined $100 for filing either campaign disclosure or economic interest forms five days late. Once a notice goes out, fines amass daily, up to $5,000 per form. Collecting can be difficult, especially from unsuccessful candidates.
Texas – Texas Republicans Lose 3 Major Donors in 2013
Houston Chronicle – Chris Tomlinson (Associated Press) | Published: 12/30/2013
The deaths this year of three major Republican campaign donors could signal a generational change for party kingmakers. Harold Simmons, Bob Perry, and Leo Linbeck, Jr. gave to Republican candidates and organizations across the country, but their influence was greatest in Texas, which has no limit on personal campaign contributions.
Virginia – Ethics Reform Seems Uncertain in General Assembly
The Daily Press – Dave Ress | Published: 12/29/2013
After a year that saw Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli embarrassed by reports of tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of gifts they accepted from a business executive, ethics is again a talking point in Richmond. Gov.-elect Terry McAuliffe plans to issue an executive order banning gifts of more than $100 to executive branch officials, but there is no consensus on whether the Legislature will enact reforms.
Wisconsin – With Audit on the Horizon, the Elections Board Spends another Year in the Crosshairs
Wisconsin State Journal – Mary Spicuzza | Published: 12/29/2013
The Wisconsin Government Accountability Board (GAB), which is made up of six former judges, and its staff are preparing to celebrate their sixth anniversary. But the board is also awaiting the results of an audit ordered by state lawmakers, many of whom have been vocal critics of the agency. “The GAB is a national model, and it would be a tragedy and a travesty if it were eliminated,” said Daniel Tokaji, a law professor at Ohio State University.
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