National:

The State Races Ignored – Until Now

Politico – Tal Kopan | Published: 2/12/2014

Races for secretary of state have captured the attention of some of the country’s major political players, who have formed national PACs and sketched out multimillion-dollar fundraising plans. They believe that winning these offices could give their side an edge in the 2016 presidential race because secretaries of state run elections and can shape voter ID rules and other details. When margins are tight, those small differences can mean the difference between a win and a loss.

Why There’s No Democratic Version of the Koch Brothers Organization

Washington Post – Reid Wilson | Published: 2/7/2014

For the Democratic professionals who run campaigns, the thing that frustrates them most about the coordinated network of conservative donors built by Charles and David Koch is that there is no real equivalent on their side. That is because big Democratic donors and big Republican contributors are motivated by different types of issues, and therefore give differently, according to Democratic strategists who deal frequently with wealthy donors.

Federal:

Both Sides Object to I.R.S. Plan to Restrict Nonprofits’ Political Activity

New York Times – Carl Hulse | Published: 2/12/2014

In a rare agreement between tea party and liberal activists, organizations across the political spectrum say new regulations drafted by the Internal Revenue Service to curb a surge in political spending and activity by nonprofits are far too broad. They fear that enforcement of the regulations would chill more neutral civic initiatives such as voter registration efforts and candidate forums.

Fight over Minimum Wage Illustrates Web of Industry Ties

New York Times – Eric Lipton | Published: 2/9/2014

Conservative and liberal groups are again working in opaque ways to shape controversial political debates in Washington through organizations with benign-sounding names that can mask the intentions of their wealthy patrons. They do it with the gloss of research, and play a critical and often underappreciated role in multilevel lobbying campaigns, backed by corporate lobbyists and labor unions, with a potential payoff that can be in the millions of dollars for the interests they represent.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Record-Setting Fine Hits Sacramento Lobbyist Kevin Sloat

Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 2/11/2014

Kevin Sloat and his lobbying firm, Sloat Higgins Jensen & Associates, agreed to pay a record $133,500 fine to the California Fair Political Practices Commission for making improper campaign contributions to some 40 politicians. In addition to improperly providing expensive wines, liquor, and cigars at fundraisers, Sloat and his firm also illegally arranged for gifts including sports tickets for some lawmakers.

Colorado – Colorado Secretary of State’s Office Offers Opinion in Favor of Parties Forming Independent Expenditures

Denver Post – Kurtis Lee | Published: 2/6/2014

The Colorado Secretary of State’s office issued an opinion clearing the way for political parties to form independent expenditure committees and solicit unlimited funds. In the years since the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision, which allows unlimited contributions for some groups, the Colorado Republican Party, which asked for the opinion, has felt weakened by the state’s campaign finance laws parties must adhere to.

Connecticut – Panel Warns About Fundraising from Contractors

Hartford Courant – John Lender | Published: 2/12/2014

Connecticut’s Elections Enforcement Commission adopted an unsolicited advisory opinion outlining when it is appropriate for a state campaign or candidate to receive money from a federal account, either directly or indirectly. Without accusing the Democratic Party of doing anything wrong, the agency that regulates elections sought to clarify questions raised by the news media and state contractors, who are banned from giving money directly to a party’s state account.

Florida – Florida’s Special Districts: Where lobbyists ride free and the public is in the dark

Miami Herald – Dan Christensen (Broward Bulldog) | Published: 2/7/2014

Lobbyist registration and disclosure has been mandatory for years in Tallahassee and in many city and county halls across Florida. Those who violate the law can be fined and barred from lobbying for up to two years. But the nearly 1,000 special-purpose governments across the state that raise and spend billions of dollars in public funds every year do not require lobbyists who appear before them to register, pay fees, or disclose any information about themselves or their clients.

Louisiana – Nagin Guilty of 20 Counts of Bribery and Fraud

New York Times – Campbell Robertson | Published: 2/12/2014

Former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin was convicted on 20 of 21 bribery and conspiracy charges, capping a broad federal investigation into public corruption in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Seven contractors and officials also have been convicted of, or have pleaded guilty to, trading city business for trips and payments. Nagin could receive a sentence of as many as 20 years in prison.

Massachusetts – House Ejects Carlos Henriquez for Assault Conviction

Boston Globe – Jim O’Sullivan and Michael Levenson | Published: 2/7/2014

The Massachusetts House expelled state Rep. Carlos Henriquez, who is serving a six-month jail sentence after being convicted of assaulting a former girlfriend. Henriquez said he was innocent of the charges and rejected calls for him to resign. House leaders insisted Henriquez’s confinement would prevent him from discharging the duties of his office. They urged colleagues to look at photos of the victim, which they said showed multiple black-and-blue marks on her chest, torso, and arms.

Minnesota – Board Firms Wall between Minn. Candidates, Groups

St. Paul Pioneer Press – Brian Bakst (Associated Press) | Published: 2/11/2014

The Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board issued an opinion that discourages candidates from helping independent political groups raise money that could eventually be routed back into their races. The board said such activity would likely violate laws meant to keep activities of candidates and independent expenditure committees separate.

New Jersey – Chris Christie’s Long Record of Pushing Boundaries, Sparking Controversy

Washington Post – Carol Morello and Carol Leonnig | Published: 2/10/2014

When Chris Christie became U.S. attorney for New Jersey, he took an oath to uphold public trust by prosecuting corruption and fraud in a state infamous for both, and to be above political influence or bias. But he held this powerful, apolitical post at a time when he was building a political future for himself, laying the groundwork for his campaign for governor. Christie’s bosses were concerned about the appearance of several deals he struck with corporations that agreed to change their ways if they were not charged in cases involving financial irregularities.

New York – City Hall’s New ‘In’ Crowd

Crain’s New York Business – Chris Bragg | Published: 2/10/2014

Political observers say lobbyists’ reputed closeness to New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and other recently elected power brokers will determine who prospers in the influence industry. “Anytime a story is written saying a lobbyist is close to a politician, they raise their rates,” said Ken Fisher, a lobbyist at Cozen O’Connor and a former City Council member.

Virginia – House Approves Ethics Reform Bill, Sends it to Senate

Roanoke Times – Marcus Schmidt (Richmond Times-Dispatch) | Published: 2/11/2014

The Virginia Legislature moved forward with measures to overhaul the state’s ethics law. The House and Senate each passed almost identical reform bills by overwhelming margins. Both bills require lawmakers and public officials to disclose gifts to their immediate families, mandate gift disclosures twice rather than once a year, and cap tangible gifts from lobbyists at $250.

State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 80 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

News You Can Use is a news service provided at no charge only to clients of our online Executive Source Guides, or ALERTS™ consulting clients.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“ʹSoft lobbyingʹ war between sugar, corn syrup shows new tactics in Washington influence” by Tom Hamburger in The Washington Post.

Wisconsin: “$32 Million Spent Lobbying State Legislators in 2013” by Bill Lueders in Urban Milwaukee.

Campaign Finance

Kentucky: “House Speaker Greg Stumbo Files Campaign Finance Legislation” in SurfKY.com.

Massachusetts: “Campaign-finance watchdog wants more disclosures” by the State House News Service in the Sentinel & Enterprise.

Minnesota: “Minnesota campaign finance regulators reinforce firewall” by Brian Bakst (Associated Press) in the Pioneer Press.

Vermont: “VTDigger launches Campaign Finance Database” by Alexei Rubenstein in WCAX TV News.

Ethics

Mississippi: “Mississippi Ethics Commission could be assigned to resolve disputes over public records” by The Associated Press in the Daily Journal.

New Jersey: “ELEC approves Christie campaign request to use funds to pay for subpoena response” by Dustin Racioppi in MyCentralJersey.com.

Virginia: “House passes its ethics reform bill” by Markus Schmidt in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Elections

Arkansas: “Proposal to avoid special election for lieutenant governor advances” by John Lyon and Rob Moritz in Arkansas News.

Colorado: “Colorado elections update nearly complete” by The Associated Press in the Pueblo Chieftain.

Tennessee: “Bill to lower standards for third-party candidates moves to Senate” by Max Smith in The Tennessean.

Congress

“Election mode hits the Capitol” by Alexander Bolton in The Hill.

From the State Legislatures

Colorado: “In 2015, nearly half of Colorado lawmakers will be in new offices” by Lynn Batels in The Denver Post.

Lobbying

“K Street’s holdouts are partisan, proud” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

California: “Lobbying firm fined $133K for gifts to lawmakers” by Fenit Nirappil (Associated Press) in the San Jose Mercury News.

Florida: “Senate considers lobbying rules for tax districts” by Steve Bousquet in the Miami Herald.

Indiana: “Watchdog group raises concerns over missing lobbyist info” by Kara Kenney on RTV6 ABC News.

Utah: “Bill would shed light on ‘dark consulting’ by Utah lobbyists” by Antone Clark in the Standard-Examiner.

Campaign Finance

“Campaign finance groups want ʹdark moneyʹ rules to stay” by Bernie Becker in The Hill.

“How Candidates Share Without Coordinating With Outside Groups” by Nathan L. Gonzales in Roll Call.

Arizona: “Bill Targets ʹDark Moneyʹ In Campaign Finance” by Dennis Lambert on KJZZ.org.

California: “Donor who broke campaign finance law in 2010 faces $45,000 penalty” by David Zahniser in the Los Angeles Times.

Florida: “Florida could be more transparent on campaign finance, study shows” in the Sunshine State News.

Minnesota: “Minn. campaign regulators assess wall of coordination between Minn. candidates, outside groups” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Vermont: “Lawmakers will try to fix campaign finance law” by The Associated Press in the Burlington Free Press.

Ethics

California: “California Senate panel to come up with new ethics, campaign laws” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.

South Carolina: “Haley appoints 8 ethics commissioners” by Adam Beam in the Rock Hill Herald.

Virginia: “Ethics, mental health bills advance in Virginia General Assembly” by Rachel Weiner in The Washington Post.

From the State Legislatures

Virginia: “Va. legislators push flurry of bills at session’s halfway point” by Laura Vozzella, Rachel Weiner and Michael Laris in The Washington Post.

Lobbying

“Coffee shop known for hosting White House meetings with lobbyists closing” by Kevin Liptak in CNN’s Political Ticker.

“Top Dollars Go To Health Care Lobbying” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

“New job for long-time Wall Street lobbyist” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

California: “Sacramento lobbying firm fined for lavish fundraisers with lawmakers” by Laurel Rosenhall and David Siders in the Sacramento Bee.

Illinois: “At 90, lobbyist still busy in Springfield” by Charcour Koop (Associated Press) in The Pantagraph.

Louisiana: “Director named for business lobbying group” by The Associated Press in the Miami Herald.

Nebraska: “Mailings raise question: What crosses lobbying line?” by Paul Hammel in The Norfolk Daily News.

New Mexico: “HB 82 would put lobbyist role on hold” in the Albuquerque Journal News.

Wyoming: “Wyoming politics have their own brand of influence peddling” by Kyle Roerink in the Star Tribune.

Campaign Finance

“Major Democratic donors press Congress for campaign finance reform” in United Press International.

“Look who’s benefiting from Citizens United: Unions wrote more big checks than corporations in 2013” by Jacob Fenton (Sunlight Foundation) in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

“Tip Sheets on Money in 2014 Hot Senate and House Races” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Arizona:  “AG Horne’s campaign finance case heads to trial” by Bob Christie in the Arizona Daily Star.

District of Columbia: “Ex-DC lawmaker who already pleaded guilty faces new campaign violations as part of new plea” by Eric Tucker (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Florida: “Fixes Proposed for Campaign Finance Website” by Mary Ellen Klas in The Ledger.

Nevada:  “Law’s vague wording on expenses leaves room for interpretation in how campaign money is spent” by Andrew Doughman in the Las Vegas Sun.

“Vt. lawmakers to try to fix campaign finance bill, but some may push for bigger changes” by The Associated Press in The Tribune.

Ethics

“U.S. Rep. Tom Petri buys stock in company lobbying for bill in his committee” by Donovan Slack in the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune.

California: “Lawmakers warned, lobbyist faces fines over unreported fundraising” by Patrick McGreevy and Paige St. John in the Los Angeles Times.

Florida: “Ethics Commission balks at more state-suggested changes” by Andy Reid in the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Georgia: “For Deal, ties to ethics commission problems run deep” by Aaron Gould Sheinin and Shannon McCaffrey in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

South Carolina: “Ethics reform moves slowly in S.C. Legislature” by Jeremy Borden in The Post and Courier.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Are Governors Talking Tech? GovTech’s Take on 2014 State of the State Addresses” in Government Technology.

“Ready to Launch, A New Platform to Ask Elected Officials Anything” by Miranda Neubauer in TechPresident.

“Key considerations for using social media in government” by Seleha Riaz in Digital by Default.

Pennsylvania: “Pa. lawmakers’ social media site usage raises ethical questions” by Jan Murphy in The Patriot-News.

National:

Small Super PACs Playing Outsize Role in Senate Races

National Journal – Scott Bland and Alex Roarty | Published: 2/3/2014

Small, state-based outside groups that are allowed to raise and spend unlimited amounts of money have proliferated in the early going of the 2014 midterm races and are threatening to have a bigger impact than those based in Washington, D.C., such as American Crossroads. These new groups are based in states where U.S. senators are battling for re-election, and dedicate themselves exclusively to that race.

Federal:

Campaign Websites in 2014 Aren’t Always What They Seem

Time Magazine – Denver Nicks | Published: 2/5/2014

A new Republican fundraising tactic reminiscent of telemarketing scams has some asking where the line is between clever campaigning and fraud. The GOP is raising money for congressional races by putting up websites that pretend to represent Democratic candidates and accept contributions that will go toward defeating the very same Democrats.

Law Doesn’t End Revolving Door on Capitol Hill

New York Times – Eric Lipton and Ben Protess | Published: 2/1/2014

Federal ethics rules are intended to limit lobbying by former senior officials within one year after they leave the government. Yet even after the ethics rules were revised in 2007 following a lobbying scandal, more than 1,650 congressional aides have registered to lobby within a year of leaving Capitol Hill, according to an analysis by The New York Times. At least half of those departing aides, the analysis shows, faced no restrictions at all.

From the States and Municipalities:

Alabama – Alabama Senate Disagrees to Agree? Partisan Fight Ends with Unanimous Vote for Tougher Ethics Bill

AL.com – Mike Cason | Published: 2/4/2014

The Alabama Senate passed legislation to tighten restrictions on former public officials who become lobbyists. Senate Bill 36 would prohibit state contractors from giving campaign contributions to state officials, and would expand the definition of lobbying, among other provisions. The bill now goes to the House.

Alabama – Resort’s Offer to Heroic Birmingham-Area Teachers Sparks Debate over Ethics

AL.com – Michelle Matthews | Published: 1/30/2014

David Clark, a condominium manager, wants to offer two-night condo stays to thank Birmingham-area teachers who stayed overnight with children who were stranded after a recent winter storm, but questions arose as to whether the giveaway would violate Alabama’s ethics law, which stipulates that teacher gifts must have a value of $25 or less, and that gifts may not exceed a total of $50 for a full calendar year.

California – Why Is It So Hard To Catch Illegal Campaign Contributions?

KPBS – Brad Racino | Published: 2/3/2014

Campaign fundraisers and strategists, as well as government employees and independent researchers, said the overwhelming number of donations that can pour into a campaign makes the process almost impossible to monitor. There is a lack of regulatory manpower needed to sift through myriad contributions to locate any abnormalities. So far, there have been more than 10,000 campaign contributions made during San Diego’s 2013 mayoral special election.

Florida – Convicted Sweetwater Mayor’s Lobbyist-Friend Gets 1-Year Sentence

Miami Herald – Jay Weaver | Published: 2/6/2014

Lobbyist Jorge Forte, a onetime chief of staff for former Sweetwater Mayor Manuel Maroño, was sentenced to one year in jail after pleading guilty to a fraud conspiracy and agreeing to cooperate with prosecutors. Maroño and Forte were arrested after an undercover FBI operation revealed they were pocketing thousands of dollars in kickbacks while seeking federal grants. Maroño, who did not cooperate in the investigation, was sentenced to 40 months in prison.

Hawaii – Critics Say Hawaii Political Money Hard to Trace

Columbus Republic; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/30/2014

Lobbyists in Hawaii are supposed disclose how much money they spend to influence lawmakers, but critics say the state disclosure system is among the weakest in the nation and prevents a timely and complete tally. Sen. Les Ihara introduced legislation to close loopholes that allowed more than 90 percent of nearly 200 registered lobbyists to report zero expenses over three reporting periods last year.

Louisiana – Louisiana Politicians Spent Millions on Meals, Golf, Tickets, Other Perks, Review Shows

New Orleans Times Picayune – Manuel Torres | Published: 1/30/2014

Running for office in Louisiana spawns campaign accounts that numerous officials are using to pay for meals and drinks, golf rounds and club dues, gifts to unnamed recipients, and other perks, reported The New Orleans Times Picayune. Critics say without stricter rules, campaign funds are being used as private expense accounts, turning contributions into little more than gifts to candidates.

Missouri – Dooley Suggested County Workers Donate 1% of Their Pay to Campaign, His Office Confirms

St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Kevin McDermott | Published: 2/4/2014

At an after-work meeting, St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley told some 50 county workers, all political appointees, that donating one percent of their salaries to his re-election campaign is traditionally what people in those jobs do in election years. KMOX reported that sources indicated no effort was made to tell employees that donating to the re-election effort was voluntary. The sources described the effect of the speech as “intimidating” with the audience caught in moments of awkward silence.

Nevada – An Awkward Position for Nevada’s Ethics Commission Director

Reno Gazette Journal – Anjeanette Damon | Published: 2/1/2014

Nevada Ethics Commission Executive Director Caren Cafferata-Jenkins is running a for Washoe Family Court judge. From the outside, it looks like an awkward position to be in; one of the state’s few public ethics watchdogs is jumping into the political game herself. Cafferata-Jenkins said she cannot afford to give up her job to run for office. “How can we expect good candidates to be unemployed for 10 months in order to have a chance at public office?” said Cafferata-Jenkins.

Oregon – Trader Joe’s Developer Hosts Event at El Gaucho; PDC Executive Director Attends

Portland Oregonian – Brad Schmidt | Published: 2/3/2014

Before Portland’s urban renewal agency approved a deal to develop a Trader Joe’s in the city, Development Commission Executive Director Patrick Quinton attended an event sponsored by a company the city later engaged to purchase the property for the store. Quinton did not disclose the food or drink he consumed. Portland’s lobbying regulations for top executives and elected officials require the disclosure of food, gifts, or entertainment worth more than $25 by someone lobbying the city.

Vermont – Drafting Error Opens Campaign Finance Law Up to Amendment

Bennington Banner – Anne Galloway (VTDigger.com) | Published: 2/6/2014

Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin signed a campaign finance reform bill into law on January 23. But there was a drafting error – the effective dates were incorrect – and the House Government Operations must address the problem with a technical corrections bill that will be up for action in the coming days. Rep. Cynthia Browning wants to use this opportunity to propose an amendment that would reinstate lower donation and contribution limits in line with the original bills passed by the House and Senate.

Virginia – At Executive Mansion, McAuliffe Puts Out the Welcome Mat

Washington Post – Laura Vozzella | Published: 2/5/2014

In need of Republican friends to get his agenda through a divided Virginia General Assembly, Gov. Terry McAuliffe has restocked the executive mansion bar and thrown open the doors for nightly receptions. McAuliffe’s open invitation is part of a broader effort to win over Republicans who knew the former Democratic National Committee chairperson only through attack ads and media accounts.

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.

On February 6, the Federal Election Commission (FEC) published its Price Index Adjustments for Expenditure Limitations and Lobbyist Bundling Disclosure Threshold in the Federal Register. The lobbyist bundling disclosure threshold has increased to $17,300 for 2014 from $17,100 in 2013. This threshold amount is adjusted annually.

Federal law requires authorized committees of federal candidates, leadership PACs, and political party committees to disclose contributions bundled by lobbyists and lobbyists’ PACs.

A state bill regarding revolving door restrictions passed the House Business and Industry Committee and is now in the House Judiciary Committee for hearings.

House Bill 82 prohibits former statewide elected officials, public regulation commissioners, legislators, and cabinet secretaries from accepting compensation as lobbyists for a period of two years after leaving public service.

The bill also prohibits employers of lobbyists from hiring the former public officials before the end of the two-year period.

The Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday, February 4, to pursue outsourcing the enforcement of political ethics to the state’s Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). Officials will ask the state Legislature to authorize the FPPC to enforce county ethics ordinances.

The unanimous vote was in response to a 2013 grand jury report titled, “A Call for Ethical Standards: Corruption in Orange County.”

Supporters of the approach cite San Bernardino County, which recently contracted with the FPPC to audit county campaigns and to prosecute ethics violations. The grand jury’s proposal would also give an independent authority the power to recommend ordinance changes concerning conflicts of interest, gifts, contract procurement, campaign finance, and lobbying.

Former Quebec premier, Jean Charest, is accused of accepting $3,000 from a lobbyist while in office. The payment occurred just days before the 2008 general election and was given by a senior executive at a windmill manufacturing company.

Charest denies the allegation, according to current premier Phillipe Couillard. The allegation stems from the testimony of Louis-Pierre Lafortune, who was an investor in the same windmill manufacturing company.

The lobbyist who allegedly delivered the check to Charest has not been identified. The windmill company went bankrupt in 2010.

National:

Bob and Maureen McDonnell Join the Club: Political spouses facing scandal

Washington Post – Krissah Thompson and Richard Leiby | Published: 1/28/2014

The latest scandal on the political scene is the indictment of former Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his wife, charged with trading on his office to provide assistance to a local businessperson in exchange for gifts and loans. Do such charges harden the resolve of political couples, who by definition are accustomed to facing adversaries, or does it tear the relationship apart?

Federal:

After ‘I’ll Break You in Half,’ House Member Apologizes

New York Times – Sarah Wheaton and Marc Santora | Published: 1/29/2014

U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) apologized after he physically threatened a reporter in the Capitol after President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address. In a video of the incident, Grimm can be heard telling Michael Scotto, a reporter for NY1, “I’ll break you in half.” Moments earlier, Grimm had walked away from an interview when Scotto began asking him questions about allegations of campaign finance violations. According to a transcript, Grimm also threatened to throw Scotto off a balcony.

How Lawmakers Skirt the Law to Keep Their Next Jobs Secret

National Journal – Billy House | Published: 1/21/2014

Critics say a law designed to prevent conflicts-of-interest and shed light on lawmakers who negotiate for post-Capitol Hill work while still in office has failed, worn thin by a series of administrative rulings and narrow interpretations. Because the law has yielded almost none of the public information it was designed to provide, it remains largely unknown whom lawmakers negotiate with, and whether their official duties present any conflicts with those employers.

From the States and Municipalities:

Colorado – Federal Court Overturns State Political-Funds Law

San Francisco Chronicle; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/24/2014

The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled a Colorado law imposing disparate campaign contribution limits for major-party vs. minor-party, unaffiliated, or write-in candidates violates the U.S. Constitution. The law allows Republicans and Democrats to collect an extra $200 per donor because they sometimes have intra-party primaries. But the law allows them to spend all their money on the general election if they wish. The court said that discriminates against donors to minor-party candidates.

Connecticut – Legislators Again Look to Lobbyists for Money

Hartford Courant – Jon Lender | Published: 1/28/2014

Connecticut lawmakers are soliciting campaign donations from lobbyists before the legislative session begins, when it becomes illegal for lobbyists to contribute for the duration of the session. This year, the lawyer for the Association of Connecticut Lobbyists is advising members of the group to refuse the legislators’ appeals in one lucrative area: buying advertisements for up to $250 each in so-called ad books that are printed for lawmakers’ fundraising receptions and used as programs for each event.

Georgia

Staffing Situation Worsens at Georgia’s Ethics Commission with resignation of Lead Assistant

Columbus Republic – Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) | Published: 1/27/2014

Lisa Dentler, the lead assistant to Georgia ethics commission Executive Secretary Holly LaBerge, has resigned and the agency’s staff attorney remains on administrative leave. LaBerge wrote in an email to commissioners that the departure “leaves the agency in a dire situation as she has been doing the work of two positions.” LaBerge has said six employees have either quit or been fired since she took over in September 2011.

Idaho – Why It’s Tough to Track What Lobbyists Give to Idaho Lawmakers

KBSU – Emilie Ritter Saunders | Published: 1/30/2014

Lobbyists in Idaho have spent more than $1 million over the last two years advocating for their clients at the Legislature. The law requires lobbyists to report the recipient of their generosity only when the value of the gift is more than $105. Even with that glimmer of disclosure, it is hard to find out which lawmaker accepted a gift above the threshold because Idaho does not have a searchable electronic database.

Louisiana – Nagin’s Trial a Coda to an Odd Political Career

Baton Rouge Advocate – Gordon Russell | Published: 1/26/2014

Former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin is now on trial, facing charges he accepted bribes and free trips among other things from contractors in exchange for helping them secure millions of dollars in city work. The charges are the product of a City Hall corruption investigation that already has resulted in several convictions or guilty pleas by former associates of Nagin.

Massachusetts – Court to Hear Supermarket Politics Challenge

Boston Globe – Denise Lavoie (Associated Press) | Published: 1/26/2014

For decades, supermarkets have been a favorite place for candidates in Massachusetts to shake hands, collect signatures, and offer a quick rundown of their views on the issues of the day. But not all supermarket chains are in favor of the tradition. The state’s highest court is being asked to decide whether a supermarket’s decision to turn away a political candidate violated his constitutional rights.

Michigan – Ethics Proposal Nixed in Warren

Macomb Daily – Norb Franz | Published: 1/28/2014

The Warren City Council rejected a proposed ethics law that would prohibit fraternization, including intimate relationships, between city bosses and subordinates. The nearly year-old measure was revived in the wake of clandestine video that surfaced of Mayor James Fouts with mayoral assistant Amanda Mika, including images of the duo holding hands. The video has triggered a firestorm because the mayor granted Mika a $5,000 pay raise in December.

Montana – Political Practices Commissioner Accused of Using Questionable Tactics to Get Results

Billings Gazette – Mike Dennison | Published: 1/26/2014

The aggressive stance of Montana’s commissioner of political practices, Jonathan Motl, against what he sees as illegal campaign activity by so-called dark money groups and their favored candidates is raising eyebrows among supporters and critics alike, the latter of whom are calling Motl everything from a “partisan hack” to a misguided crusader on a “witch hunt.”

Nevada – Lawmakers Have to Declare Gifts But Aren’t Willing to Define Them

Las Vegas Sun – Andrew Doughmsn | Published: 1/26/2014

A few elected officials in Nevada who accepted gifts sometimes worth thousands of dollars declined to report them as required by state law. They dispute whether they legally need to file disclosers, in part because there is no explicit definition of a “gift” in state law. Secretary of State Ross Miller said there are likely numerous elected officials who are receiving reportable gifts and not listing them on disclosure forms. But “there’s no way for us to know” for sure, said Miller.

New York – Donor Secrecy Remains Big Issue

Albany Times Union – Rick Karlin | Published: 1/28/2014

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics declined to shield the financial reports of four advocacy groups that say public disclosure of their financial backers is likely to result in threats or even harm. The commission requires reports from state lobbyists, though it can withhold records of contributors to lobbying groups that show their donors would likely face danger if reported.

Pennsylvania – City Council Mulls Ban on Cash Gifts to Phila. Officials

Philadelphia Inquirer – Claudia Vargas | Published: 1/30/2014

A bill introduced in the Philadelphia City Council would ban all city employees and officials from receiving cash gifts. The proposed ordinance would also cap the total value of gifts received in a calendar year at $99. The bill is a result of discussions among various ethics officials and outside watchdog groups over how to interpret a vague section in the city code that deals with gifts.

Texas – Life Story of Wendy Davis Swings from Strength to Flash Point in Texas Campaign

New York Times – Manny Fernandez and Laurie Goodstein | Published: 1/29/2014

Since questions were raided about whether she had fudged some items in her biography, Texas Sen. Wendy Davis, who is running for governor, has been under attack for omitting the fact that her second husband helped pay for her Harvard Law School education and her two children mostly stayed in Texas while she was there. The controversy has prompted a debate over culturally charged questions about a woman’s balance of work, ambition, and parenthood.

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

“Obama should praise lobbyists more, lobbyists say” by Zachary Roth in MSNBC.

“Lobbying falls for third year in a row” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Arizona: “Senator tries again to ban tickets from lobbyists” by Hank Stephenson and Ben Giles in the Arizona Capitol Times.

Campaign Finance

“Campaign finance: Parties gear up for 2014” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“Convention wipeout coming?” by Molly K. Hooper in The Hill.

Arkansas: “Report: Ark. Lt. Gov. cited ‘carelessness’ in campaign, office spending to ethics staff” by The Associated Press in The Republic.

Arkansas: “Panel favors allowing fundraising for federal office during session” by John Lyon in the Arkansas News.

Ethics

New Jersey: “Lawyer with ties to Christie named to top spot on state Ethics Commission” by The Associated Press in the Press of Atlantic City.

Elections

Arkansas: “Beebe supports proposal to avoid special election for lieutenant governor” by John Lyon in the Arkansas News.

Government Tech and Social Media

“How the 2014 State of the Union Took Over Social Media” by Billy Mitchell in In the Capital.

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE) rejected a request made by several activist groups to grant an exemption from the donor disclosure requirement provided by New York law. Under the ethics law, a registered lobbyist, under certain circumstances, must report the names of each source of funding over $5,000 from a single source used to fund the lobbying activity reported and the amounts received from each identified source.

Under the same law, the JCOPE can grant an exemption to the donor disclosure requirement if that disclosure would put contributors at risk. The party requesting the exemption must demonstrate that the disclosure of their donors would cause harm, threats, harassment, or reprisals.

The JCOPE denied the exemption requested by Family Planning Advocates, the New York Women’s Equality Coalition, New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms and the New York Civil Liberties Union. The groups can appeal the decision to an independent judicial hearing officer within 15 days of the JCOPE’s written ruling, which has not yet been completed.

At the same meeting, the commission also limited one exemption that it had already granted to NARAL Pro-Choice NY by scheduling the donor disclosure exemption to expire with the group’s next filing.

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“K Street wants less bashing of lobbyists” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

“Lobbyist trades K Street for MLB” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

New York: “Ethics panel: Some groups can keep donors secret” by Michael Gormley in Newsday.

Campaign Finance

California: “San Bernardino County to revise its campaign finance reform ordinance” by Joe Nelson in the Daily Bulletin.

California: “Lobbyist accused in campaign finance scandal has bond approved, could be released” by Steve Fiorina in ABC 10 San Diego News.

Connecticut: “Legislators Again Look To Lobbyists For Money” by Jon Lender in The Hartford Courant.

Ethics

California: “State Sen. Roderick Wright found guilty of perjury, voter fraud” by Jean Merl in the Los Angeles Times.

Virginia: “Attorneys for former Va. governor McDonnell and his wife seek clarification of court order” by Matt Zapotosky in The Washington Post.

From the State Legislatures

“Alabama House goes home, Senate convenes” by Brian Lyman in the Montgomery Advertiser.

Ohio: “First-term Ohio House lawmakers finding their way” by Will Drabold in The Columbus Dispatch.

Lobbying

“K Street getting a big boost” by Kevin Bogardus and Erik Wasson in The Hill.

“Business eyes debt limit without fear” by Kevin Bogardus in The Hill.

Alabama: “Birmingham powerbrokers spending less on lobbying” by Anna McFall in the Birmingham Business Journal.

Arizona: “Arizona Lobbyist Gets Community Service, Probation” by Brian Skoloff (Associated Press) on ABC News.

Missouri: “Lawmakers question Normandy School District’s hiring of lobbyists” by Elisa Crouch in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Campaign Finance

“Places with the Highest Rates of Political Giving” by Sreekar Jasthee in Nerd Wallet.

California: “Dumanis won’t return more donations” by Trent Seibert and Joel Hoffmann in the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Texas: “Small donations add up for Texas politicians” by Anna M. Tinsley in the Star-Telegram.

Ethics

Alaska: “Fairbanks Mayor Eberhart attorney says APOC treating candidates differently” by Sam Friedman in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.

California: “Ethics panel briefed by independent counsel on Sen. Ronald S. Calderon” by Patrick McGreevy in the Los Angeles Times.

California: “Mayoral Candidates Met with Man Charged in Campaign Finance Scandal” by Candice Nguyen and Wendy Fry in NBC 7 San Diego News.

Georgia: “Staffing situation worsens at GA ethics commission” by Christina A. Cassidy (Associated Press) in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Rhode Island: “RI House Speaker Fox fined $1,500 for violating ethics filing rules” by Tom Mooney in the Providence Journal.