May 8, 2024 •
The Lifetime Lobbying Ban Act Introduced in Congress
![The Lifetime Lobbying Ban Act Introduced in Congress](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/united-states-2361405_1920-1000x563.jpg)
The Lifetime Lobbying Ban Act was in introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. The short three-page bill, which would repeal the current one- or two-year waiting period for former members of Congress to work as a federal lobbyist and […]
The Lifetime Lobbying Ban Act was in introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The short three-page bill, which would repeal the current one- or two-year waiting period for former members of Congress to work as a federal lobbyist and replace it with a permanent ban, was introduced on April 30.
On the same day U.S. Rep. Jared F. Golden introduced the legislation along with five other bills addressing governmental ethics.
These include, as described in his press release:
- The Congressional and Executive Foreign Lobbying Ban, which would ban retired members of Congress, senior executive branch officials, and high-ranking military officials from lobbying on behalf of foreign interests;
- The Stop Foreign Payoffs Act, which would ban members of Congress, presidents, vice presidents, and Cabinet secretaries, as well as their close family members, from earning a salary or holding investments in foreign businesses for as long as the official is in office;
- The Crack Down on Dark Money Act, which would end the ability of mega-donors to launder secret political activity through 501(c)(4) nonprofits by reducing the cap on political activity by those nonprofits from 50 percent of all spending to 10 percent and requiring them to disclose all donors of $5,000 or more if there are political expenditures;
- The Consistent Labeling for Political Ads Act, which would increase transparency in online political advertising by requiring social media platforms to make ad labels “sticky,” meaning they would appear on paid political content regardless of how it is shared or where it appears; and
- The Fighting Foreign Influence Act, which would require tax-exempt organizations, including think tanks, to disclose high-dollar gifts from foreign governments or political parties, impose a lifetime ban on foreign lobbying by former presidents, vice presidents, senior military officials and require political campaigns to verify online donors have a valid US address.
According to Golden’s press release, this raft of bills is part of the Government Integrity & Anti-Corruption Plan, which has the stated goal of strengthening government integrity and fighting corruption.
May 8, 2024 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Elections Georgia: “Georgia Court Candidate Sues to Block Ethics Rules So He Can Keep Campaigning on Abortion” by Jeff Amy (Associated Press) for MSN Ethics Alaska: “Report: Internal emails at Alaska Permanent Fund show financial manager raising ethical concerns about fund’s vice chair” by […]
Elections
Georgia: “Georgia Court Candidate Sues to Block Ethics Rules So He Can Keep Campaigning on Abortion” by Jeff Amy (Associated Press) for MSN
Ethics
Alaska: “Report: Internal emails at Alaska Permanent Fund show financial manager raising ethical concerns about fund’s vice chair” by Alex DeMarban (Anchorage Daily News) for Yahoo Finance
Minnesota: “Senate Ethics Panel Deadlocks on Mitchell Complaint; Next Meeting Will Follow June Court Date” by Alex Derosier (St. Paul Pioneer Press) for MSN
National: “Congressman: Racist trope not ‘focal point’ of video he shared of Ole Miss counterprotesters” by Maegan Vazquez and Patrick Svitek (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Judge Indefinitely Delays Trump’s Classified Documents Trial in Florida” by Perry Stein and Devlin Barrett (Washington Post) for MSN
New Mexico: “With City Ethics Review Underway, Critics Try to Unmask ‘Jay Baker'” by Carina Julig (Santa Fe New Mexican) for Yahoo News
Pennsylvania: “Pa. Game Commission Director Resigns Amid Ethics Concerns About His ‘Wellness’ Side Business” by Gillian McGoldrick (Philadelphia Inquirer) for MSN
Legislative Issues
National: “Congresswoman Battling Brain Disorder Delivers House Speech Using a Text-to-Voice App” by Mariana Alfaro (Washington Post) for MSN
May 7, 2024 •
Ask the Expert – Georgia’s New Lobbyist System
![Ask the Expert – Georgia’s New Lobbyist System](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Georgia-Capitol-Hi-Res-1000x563.jpg)
Georgia State Capitol Building
Q: I need to register as a lobbyist in Georgia and I have heard Georgia has overhauled their system. Were there any changes to how one registers or to what is required on lobbying reports? A: Georgia has undergone a […]
Q: I need to register as a lobbyist in Georgia and I have heard Georgia has overhauled their system. Were there any changes to how one registers or to what is required on lobbying reports?
A: Georgia has undergone a massive renovation of their lobbyist system. Registration is now a complex process that requires clients to make an account, which was not necessary under the old system.
When creating a client account, the system will request a list of officers and authorized agents. Any officers listed will have a client account created, using the email provided as a Login ID. Only officers are able to file reports, while authorized agents may only input information into the system.
Once the registration is submitted, an email will be sent to each of the listed officers, prompting them to create a password. The Ethics Commission will only discuss issues with the client account with the listed officers.
Following the creation of the client account, the lobbyist account may be created.
Once the lobbyist registration is submitted, a “token” will be created and emailed to the officers of the listed client. The client must then accept the “token” by clicking on the link and authorizing the lobbyist. The system will then send an email to the lobbyist to create their password. Once the password is created, the lobbyist is officially registered. It is important to note the lobbyist’s account will not be created until the client accepts the relationship. The $20 badge fee may be paid from the lobbyist account or the client account.
While the changes to lobbyist reporting are more modest, there are still differences between the old and new systems.
A large change is that there are now only three different reports: Local, Legislative, and Agency. The Agency report has combined Agency, Vendor, and State Board of Transportation into one report. Even if you only registered as an Agency lobbyist, your report will be labeled as an Agency, Vendor, and State Board of Transportation report.
The new system now requires additional information to file a report. Each expenditure disclosure must now contain:
• Date of the expenditure
• Amount
• The client of the lobbyist
• The “type” of expenditure
• A description of the expenditure
• The name of the payee
• Whether the recipient is a public officer or group and their name.
The system also allows for the disclosure of the purpose of the expenditure and the number of the bill, resolution, or regulation, but this is an optional disclosure.
May 7, 2024 •
Mississippi Legislature Adjourns Sine Die
![Mississippi Legislature Adjourns Sine Die](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Flag_of_Mississippi.svg-1000x563.png)
Flag of Mississippi; Rocky Vaughn, Sue Anna Joe, Dominique Pugh, Clay Moss, Kara Giles, and the Mississippi Department of Archives and History
The Mississippi Legislature adjourned sine die on Saturday, May 4. Notable bills passed during this session include House Bill 1664, which included agents and owners of utility companies in the definition of covered person for the purposes of political contribution […]
The Mississippi Legislature adjourned sine die on Saturday, May 4.
Notable bills passed during this session include House Bill 1664, which included agents and owners of utility companies in the definition of covered person for the purposes of political contribution and gift restrictions.
Lawmakers also succeeded in passing a $7.9 billion budget.
Notable bills that did not pass included a bill to require lobbyists to disclose whether any client is a foreign principal of a foreign adversary and a bill requiring disclosure if the lobbyist had a material financial interest in a business that may benefit from an issue or bill.
May 7, 2024 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Elections Missouri: “In This Missouri County, Republicans Go to ‘War’ Over Who Can Run as a Republican” by Eric Adler (Kansas City Star) for Yahoo News New York: “This Obscure N.Y. Election Law Is at the Heart of Trump’s Hush Money Trial” by David […]
Elections
Missouri: “In This Missouri County, Republicans Go to ‘War’ Over Who Can Run as a Republican” by Eric Adler (Kansas City Star) for Yahoo News
New York: “This Obscure N.Y. Election Law Is at the Heart of Trump’s Hush Money Trial” by David Nakamura (Washington Post) for MSN
Ethics
Florida: “Miami Mayor Subpoenaed to Testify in SEC’s Case Against Developer Who Paid Him” by Jay Weaver, Tess Riski, Sarah Blaskey, and Joey Flechas (Miami Herald) for Yahoo Finance
Massachusetts: “Potential Conflicts of Interest Widespread at Mass. Special Ed Schools” by Patrick Madden for WBUR
Missouri: “County Official Who Put Stadium Tax on Ballot Sought Suite Tickets as Talks Were in Play” by Mike Hendricks (Kansas City Star) for Yahoo News
Pennsylvania: “Gov. Josh Shapiro Uses Pennsylvania’s State Plane Much More Than His Predecessor” by Stephen Caruso for Spotlight PA
Legislative Issues
Arizona: “Dem Lawmakers Say Ethics Complaints Over Abortion Ban Repeal Outburst Should Be Thrown Out” by Gloria Rebecca Gomez (Arizona Mirror) for Yahoo News
National: “Noem Dog Shooting Sparks Congressional Dog Lovers Caucus” by Mia McCarthy (Politico) for MSN
May 6, 2024 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance National: “Candidates for Federal Office Can Raise Unlimited Funds for Ballot Measures” by Maggie Haberman (New York Times) for DNyuz Hawaii: “Lessons For Hawaii: Other states have strong pay-to-play laws” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat National: “Major Corporations Reluctant to Make […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Candidates for Federal Office Can Raise Unlimited Funds for Ballot Measures” by Maggie Haberman (New York Times) for DNyuz
Hawaii: “Lessons For Hawaii: Other states have strong pay-to-play laws” by Blaze Lovell for Honolulu Civil Beat
National: “Major Corporations Reluctant to Make a Splash at the 2024 Political Conventions” by Amanda Terkel and Brian Schwartz (CNBC), and Natasha Korecki (NBC) for MSN
Ethics
Washington DC: “D.C. Court Temporarily Suspends Trump Lawyer John Eastman’s Law License” by Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Rep. Henry Cuellar Accused of Taking Bribes from Azerbaijan, Mexican Bank” by Perry Stein and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) for MSN
North Dakota: “Jury Finds Rep. Dockter Guilty of Misdemeanor Conflict-of-Interest Charge” by Mary Steurer for North Dakota Monitor
Oregon: “Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek Apologizes, Walks Back Plan to Expand her Wife’s Role in Administration” by Dirk VanderHart and Lauren Drake for OPB
Pennsylvania: “Group That Doesn’t Disclose Its Donors Paid $12K for Shapiro to Attend Phillies Games, Other Sporting Events” by Stephen Caruso and Angela Couloumbis for Spotlight PA
May 3, 2024 •
News You Can Use Digest – May 3, 2024
![News You Can Use Digest – May 3, 2024](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/NYCU-Logo-e1662491950752-1000x563.png)
National/Federal Gateway Pundit to File for Bankruptcy Amid Election Conspiracy Lawsuits MSN – Will Sommer (Washington Post) | Published: 4/24/2024 Gateway Pundit, the popular far-right blog, is filing for bankruptcy as it faces lawsuits alleging it promoted bogus claims about the 2020 […]
National/Federal
Gateway Pundit to File for Bankruptcy Amid Election Conspiracy Lawsuits
MSN – Will Sommer (Washington Post) | Published: 4/24/2024
Gateway Pundit, the popular far-right blog, is filing for bankruptcy as it faces lawsuits alleging it promoted bogus claims about the 2020 election. Since its launch in 2004, the site has become a clearinghouse for conspiracy theories about the election, school shootings, and other topics, helping to funnel such flimsy stories from the fringes of the internet to the broader pro-Trump right thanks to its substantial audience.
Push to Restrict LGBTQ+ Rights Hits a Snag in State Legislatures
MSN – Casey Parks (Washington Post) | Published: 4/29/2024
State lawmakers introduced a record number of bills targeting gay and transgender Americans this year, but hardly any have passed, raising questions about whether the push to restrict LGBTQ++ rights is losing momentum. Similar bills sailed through state Legislatures in recent years. This year, they failed even in states where Republicans have supermajorities and governors demanded wins. Strategists on both sides say Republicans appear increasingly unwilling to stake their reelections on cultural issues. Polls have found the issues are not especially important to voters.
A Ukraine-Born Congresswoman Voted No on Aid. Her Hometown Feels Betrayed
MSN – Siobhán O’Grady, Anastacia Galouchka, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) | Published: 4/25/2024
U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz grew up in a small town north of Kyiv, and later moved to America and became the first Ukrainian-born member of Congress. But after Spartz voted against a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, the esteem that locals held for her turned to anger and a sense of betrayal. Spartz’s “no” vote was the latest twist in her transformation from a pro-Ukraine advocate who toured war wreckage in her hometown to a critic of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in line with the Republican Party’s most right-wing camp.
Democrats, Political Figures Dogpile onto Trump VP Hopeful After Story of Animal Killings
MSN – Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) | Published: 4/27/2024
It does not matter if you are a Republican or Democrat, liberal or conservative – a growing number of elected officials and political groups all suddenly want you to know that they love their dogs. The outpouring of animal love from political social media is all in response to South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who is believed to be in the running to be Donald Trump’s running mate, admitting in her forthcoming book that she killed a family dog and goat in a gravel pit with a gun on the same day.
They Staffed the Jan. 6 Committee. Threats Still Follow Them
MSN – Chris Marquette and Michael Macagnone (Roll Call) | Published: 4/30/2024
Some staff members of the now-disbanded January 6 panel in Congress say their work exposed them to threats, raised doubts about their safety, and required additional safety precautions. Their experiences, recounted in interviews, serve as an example of concerns among Capitol Hill staffers about whether their work could make them a target for political violence.
Federal Elections Regulator from Texas Has Ted Cruz Campaign Sign in Front Yard
MSN – Joseph Morton (Dallas Morning News) | Published: 5/1/2024
A recent post on X shows a campaign sign for U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz in the yard of FEC member Trey Trainor. Cruz is the subject of a complaint filed with the agency over more than $630,000 in advertising revenue that flowed from the senator’s podcast to a super PAC backing his reelection. The public show of support for Cruz does not violate the law, but it could raise the appearance of bias by a government regulator, campaign finance lawyer Brett Kappel said.
After Weeks of College Protests, Police Responses Ramp Up
MSN – Danielle Paquette, Hannah Natanson, Joanna Slater, and Emily Wax-Thibodeaux (Washington Post) | Published: 5/1/2024
Colleges and universities reckoned with the aftermath of major shows of police force across the country that cleared some protest encampments and emptied a Columbia University classroom building in a turning point following two weeks of contagious pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Even after a fragile calm resettled over campuses that have seen the bulk of the chaos, footage of officers in riot gear extracting students from Columbia’s Hamilton Hall sparked debates nationwide as Americans struggled to make sense of it all.
House Passes Antisemitism Bill Over Complaints from First Amendment Advocates
MSN – Abigail Hauslohner (Washington Post) | Published: 5/1/2024
The House passed the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which its advocates said would empower the federal government to crack down on anti-Israel protests on campuses by codifying a definition of antisemitism that encompasses not just threats against Jews, but also certain criticisms of Israel itself. The definition has drawn opposition from First Amendment advocates such as the American Civil Liberties Union and liberal Democrats, who say it veers into the realm of restricting political views.
How Online Donations Are Fueling the Election
Politico – Jessica Piper, Paula Friedrich, Anna Wiederkehr, and Madison Fernandez | Published: 4/30/2024
The ease of giving online has dramatically expanded the pool of donors in just a few election cycles and helped campaigns bring in greater hauls than ever before. As online donations ballooned in recent years, they became a majority of funds raised by congressional candidates. A new analysis shows how it has helped establish new dynamics in campaigning and fundraising.
States Move to Label Deepfake Political Ads
Roll Call – Gopal Ratnam | Published: 4/24/2024
At least 39 states are considering measures that would add transparency to artificial intelligence (AI)-generated deepfake ads or calls as campaigns intensify ahead of the November election. The efforts are largely focused on identifying content produced using AI as opposed to controlling that content or prohibiting its distribution, according to Megan Bellamy, vice president of law and policy at the Voting Rights Lab.
When Judges Get Free Trips to Luxury Resorts, Disclosure Is Spotty
Texas Public Radio – Tom Dreisbach and Carrie Johnson (NPR) | Published: 5/1/2024
Dozens of federal judges failed to fully disclose free luxury travel to judicial conferences around the world, as required by internal judiciary rules and federal ethics law, an NPR investigation found. As a result, the public remained in the dark about potential conflicts-of-interest for some of the country’s top legal officials. Many judges defend these events as helpful forums to discuss important issues, and they reject criticism that a stay at a fancy hotel could influence their decisions. Critics call them “junkets” and glorified vacations that reward ideological allies.
Government Watchdog Alleges Trump Campaign Broke the Law Trying to Hide Legal Payments
Yahoo News – Zach Anderson (USA Today) | Published: 4/25/2024
A complaint filed with the FEC alleges Donald Trump’s 2024 White House campaign and its related political committees engaged in a scheme to conceal who is being paid for much of the former president’s legal work in a possible violation of federal law. The complaint centers on a company called Red Curve Solutions, which allegedly received $7.2 million from Trump’s campaign and four other related political committees.
Rep. Golden Doubles Down on Campaign Finance Reform with New Legislation
Yahoo News – Emma Davis (Maine Morning Star) | Published: 5/2/2024
U.S. Rep. Jared Golden introduced six bills aimed to increase transparency and limit spending in elections. These latest proposals build on Golden’s Government Integrity and Anti-Corruption Plan, an existing package of nine bills with similar objectives that he introduced or co-sponsored during the 118th Congress, though they have yet to receive votes.
From the States and Municipalities
Arizona – GOP Ethics Complaints Target 2 Arizona House Democrats for ‘Attempted Insurrection’
Arizona Republic – Mary Jo Pitzl | Published: 4/26/2024
Two House Democrats were hit with ethics complaints for behavior that Republicans characterized as “an attempted insurrection” in the aftermath of a debate about Arizona’s 1864 abortion law. The complaint names Reps. Oscar de los Santos and Analise Ortiz. They led fellow Democrats in chants of “shame, shame” after the House abruptly went into a recess rather than consider a motion to repeal the law. They also called out Rep. Matt Gress when he was answering questions about his attempt to get a repeal vote.
Arkansas – Gosses Sentenced in Bribery Scheme That Included Former Arkansas Lawmakers
Arkansas Democrat-Gazette – Ron Wood | Published: 4/29/2024
A Missouri couple was sentenced to federal prison in a Medicaid fraud scheme that saw five former Arkansas lawmakers convicted on bribery-related charges. Tommy Ray Goss, former chief financial officer of Preferred Family Healthcare, received six years in prison. Bontiea Goss, his wife and former chief operating officer of the same company, was sentenced to three years behind bars. They were ordered to jointly pay $4.35 million in forfeiture and restitution.
California – California Passed a Law to Stop ‘Pay to Play’ in Local Politics. After Two Years, Legislators Want to Gut It
CalMatters – Yue Stella Yu | Published: 5/1/2024
Described by its author as the “most significant political reform” in decades, a 2022 law designed to limit attempts by businesses and contractors to sway local elected officials with campaign contributions cleared the California Legislature without a single “no” vote. Two years later, some of the same lawmakers who backed the measure want to water it down, and they have the backing of developers and labor unions.
California – Legislative Non-Disclosure Agreement Bill Fails First Vote in California Committee
Courthouse News Service – Alan Riquelmy | Published: 4/25/2024
A bill in the California Legislature that would have banned non-disclosure agreements when crafting legislation, a response to the “Paneragate” scandal, failed to pass out of the Assembly Elections Committee. Assembly Bill 2654 would have prohibited certain people – including lobbyists, public officials, lawmakers, and employees of the governor’s office – from entering a non-disclosure agreement when drafting, negotiating, or discussing bills.
Florida – Florida’s ‘Pro-Corruption’ Ethics Bill Sits in Gubernatorial Limbo
Jacksonville Today – Casmira Harrison | Published: 5/1/2024
Florida lawmakers passed Senate Bill 7014, which would eliminate the ability of citizens to file anonymous ethics complaints against government officials. Local ethics regulators have said it would “reduce anti-corruption efforts and undermine the investigation process. Gov. Ron DeSantis has yet to act on the bill. The governor still has time to veto the bill or put the full weight of his office behind it by signing the legislation. He could just let it quietly become law. That is what Catherine Klancke, executive director of the Florida Ethics Institute, expects.
Hawaii – Ethics Chief Robert Harris: Give legislators their due, but keep pushing for more reform
Honolulu Civil Beat – Richard Wiens | Published: 4/28/2024
Robert Harris has had a front-row seat for efforts to reform government in Hawaii as executive director of the State Ethics Commission and a member of the special House commission created in response to a series of public scandals. As another legislative session winds down, Harris gave an interview on the ongoing effort to make state and local governments more transparent.
Yahoo News – Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) | Published: 4/29/2024
A year and a half after Republican Darren Bailey lost his campaign to challenge Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, state election officials are weighing whether he illegally colluded with conservative radio show host and political operative Dan Proft in the 2022 campaign. If the board finds the two organizations did illegally coordinate, Proft’s organization and Bailey’s campaign could be on the hook for millions of dollars in fines. Proft has also faced criticisms and an FEC complaint over his publishing and use of a network of free “newspapers” and corresponding websites to support conservative candidates.
Indiana – ‘Wealthy Person’s Game’: Self-funders drive up the cost to win Indiana elections
MSN – Kayla Dwyer and Brittany Carloni (Indianapolis Star) | Published: 5/2/2024
This year, campaign spending has eclipsed gubernatorial primary expenditure records in Indiana by multitudes, and multiple wealthy candidates are self-funding their campaigns, both for governor and for Congress, to the tune of millions of dollars. Money has become a defining feature of this election cycle. Self-funders have risen to prominence in Indiana, a national trend that has surged dramatically in the last two decades.
Kentucky – This Oldham County Teen May Be Kentucky’s Youngest Lobbyist
Yahoo News – Krista Johnson (Louisville Courier-Journal) | Published: 5/1/2024
High school freshman Kiera Dunk has traveled to the state Capitol in Frankfort dozens of times, and her passion for advocacy led her to write her own bill – one that increased penalties for child abuse – and get it passed at age 13. She has met with some of the state’s most powerful politicians to garner their support. Dunk has successfully advocated for the passage of two bills, and she is working on a third. “She is certainly wise beyond her years – there’s a lot of lobbyists that could learn from her,” House Speaker David Osborne said.
Kentucky – Judge Reverses Ethics Charge Against Alison Lundergan Grimes
Yahoo News – Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) | Published: 4/29/2024
Former Kentucky Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes was cleared of ethics charges against her related to her access and sharing of voter data. Judge Phillp Shepherd ruled against charges brought against Grimes by the Executive Branch Ethics Commission. The commission previously fined Grimes $10,000 and reprimanded her for ordering the downloading and distribution of voter registration data from her public office while she was secretary of state.
Louisiana – Federal Judges Strike Down La. Congressional Map with Second Black-Majority District
MSN – Maegan Vazquez and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) | Published: 4/30/2024
A federal three-judge panel threw out Louisiana’s recently redrawn congressional map that included an additional majority-Black district, leaving the state without a settled map just months before the November elections. The ruling is the latest in a broader set of legal challenges to electoral maps across the South. The outcome of these suits is likely to play a crucial role in deciding which party controls the House next year.
Maryland – How Publicly Financed Campaigns Are Working in Baltimore
Baltimore Banner – Adam Willis and Emily Sullivan | Published: 4/23/2024
A new public financing system for Baltimore elections is now in effect. Under the system, publicly financed candidates commit to accepting no more than $150 from any donor, well below the $6,000 limit for traditionally financed campaigns, and no contributions from PACs, corporations, and unions. The city multiplies small-dollar contributions from Baltimore residents, with smaller donations being more heavily rewarded.
Massachusetts – Massachusetts Water Employees Pay Fines for Accepting Free Ski Trips, Red Sox Tickets, Rooftop Drinks at The Envoy Hotel
Boston Herald – Rick Sobey | Published: 4/29/2024
Four water services employees in Massachusetts paid fines for accepting free ski trips, Boston Red Sox tickets, rooftop drinks at The Envoy Hotel, and other gifts, according to the State Ethics Commission. The municipal workers in Danvers, Salem, Southampton, and Sudbury admitted to violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law multiple times by accepting valuable gifts from a water meter manufacturer and its distributor. The law bans public employees from receiving anything worth $50 or more that’s given to them because of their official positions.
Massachusetts – Cape Lawmaker Repeatedly Lied to State Regulators Investigating His 2022 Election
CommonWealth Beacon – Gintautas Dumicus | Published: 4/30/2024
Massachusetts regulators found state Rep. Christopher Flanagan violated campaign finance law and lied about it to officials. The infractions stemmed from a mailer sent out to local homes, ostensibly from a group called “Conservatives for Dennis,” in support of Flanagan, a Democrat who previously chaired the Dennis Select Board. In a letter to Flanagan, Office of Campaign and Political Finance (OCPF) Director William Campbell wrote that “OCPF’s review eventually revealed that you created an alias, ‘Jeanne Louise’, to conceal your financial role in the creation of the mailer in support of your election.”
Massachusetts – Massachusetts DA Pays Ethics Fine After Car Crash Response, Promoting Campaign Donor’s Rental Apartments to Staff
MSN – Rick Sobey (Boston Herald) | Published: 5/1/2024
Cape and Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois, who reportedly sped away from an accident scene and boosted a campaign donor’s rental apartments paid a $5,000 civil penalty for violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law. Following the crash, Galibois directed his staff to issue a statement that would promote a public narrative favorable to himself. He ended up referring two of his assistant district attorney’s to the donor for the apartments last year.
Massachusetts – DA Kevin Hayden Pays $5,000 Ethics Fine Over Controversial Primary
MSN – Molly Farrar (Boston.com) | Published: 4/24/2024
Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden will pay a civil penalty of $5,000 for violating a conflict-of-interest law when his office discredited an opponent in a press statement, resulting in a political advantage, the state Ethics Commission announced. Hayden’s conflict was regarding his response to sexual assault allegations against his then-opponent for district attorney, Ricardo Arroyo.
Minnesota – DFL Sen. Nicole Mitchell Returns to Capitol After Burglary Charge, Casts Votes Amid Criticism
MSN – Ryan Faircloth (Minneapolis Star Tribune) | Published: 4/29/2024
Minnesota Sen. Nicole Mitchell returned to the statehouse and began voting for the first time since she was arrested and charged with felony first-degree burglary. Mitchell voted on motions directly related to whether she should be allowed to vote going forward. Republicans offered a motion to prohibit any member who has been charged with a crime of violence from voting on bills until the chamber’s ethics committee has weighed in on their case. They argued other Minnesotans would be put on leave from their jobs if they faced such a serious criminal charge.
Missouri – Missouri House Ethics Panel Drops Probe of Dean Plocher After Blocking Push to Release Evidence
Missouri Independent – Rudi Keller | Published: 4/29/2024
The Missouri House Ethics Committee dismissed allegations against Speaker Dean Plocher for misuse of taxpayer dollars, using his influence to push a pricey contract with a company with ties to his employer, and retaliating against staffers who raised complaints. The vote officially ended the committee’s months-long investigation into numerous scandals connected to Plocher, including revelations he received nearly $4,000 in government reimbursements for travel expenses already paid by his campaign.
New Jersey – This N.J. Agency Calls Out Political Corruption. Politicians Want More Control Over It.
MSN – Jelani Gibson and Susan Livio (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 4/26/2024
The Office of the State Comptroller, an independent government agency tasked with tracking government corruption, fraud, waste, and abuse in New Jersey, is facing organized pushback from county officials who are demanding state lawmakers rein in its authority and “bullying” tactics. The New Jersey Association of Counties sent a letter asking Senate President Nick Scutari to put the comptroller under more control and establish procedures that could challenge the agency’s findings.
New Jersey – Assembly Speaker’s Law Firm Has Made Millions Since He Took Power. Critics Cry Foul.
MSN – Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) | Published: 4/25/2024
Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin’s law firm has seen explosive growth in the seven years since it opened its doors. Representing local governments, the firm has earned more than $38 million from public contracts since its inception, with annual revenues that now place it among New Jersey’s top law firms with public business. With the firm’s rise in revenue coinciding with Coughlin’s role as speaker, good government groups say the financial ties raise questions about whether he is profiting from his public role from municipalities seeking a friend in the speaker.
New Jersey – Elections Watchdog Asks for Daniel’s Law Tweaks, More Time to Investigate
New Jersey Monitor – Nikita Biryukov | Published: 5/1/2024
The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission recommended lawmakers provide them more time to probe violations, expand reporting requirements for independent expenditure groups, and reconcile a state law that shields some addresses from disclosure with a statute requiring they be reported. The recommendations follow the enactment of the Elections Transparency Act last year.
New York – Judge’s Contempt Punishment Takes Aim at Trump’s Tendency to Lie
DNyuz – Alan Feuer, Ben Protess, Jonah Bromwich, and William Rashbaum (New York Times) | Published: 4/30/2024
The judge overseeing Donald Trump’s criminal case in New York held him in contempt, fining the former president $9,000 for repeatedly violating a gag order and warning he could go to jail if he continued to attack witnesses and jurors. Judge Juan Merchan determined Trump flouted the gag order by making public statements on social media and on his campaign website in which he attacked witnesses and the jury. He ordered Trump to remove the posts. The judge’s ruling and admonition came one week after a hearing in which prosecutors had argued Trump’s statements threatened the trial.
New York Focus – Alyssa Katz | Published: 5/1/2024
A controversial aspect of New York’s new campaign finance system is that there is no limit to how much participating campaigns can spend outside the program – so candidates can benefit from small-dollar matching and big-donor spending at once. In contrast, New York City’s public finance system imposes a strict spending cap. “You have candidates who try to exploit the campaign finance system while spending their own and independent expenditure money …, which defeats the purpose of having a democratic matching system in the first place,” said state Assemblyperson Ron Kim.
New York – Emails Reveal Top Trump Accountant Had Secret Campaign Role
Yahoo News – Roger Sollenberger (Daily Beast) | Published: 5/2/2024
The prosecution is calling witnesses in Donald Trump’s New York criminal trial that can attest to Trump’s personal involvement in the underlying crime the case is built on, but one witness will not be at their disposal. Trump Organization financial controller Allen Weisselberg will not testify due to a plea agreement. But Weisselberg left behind a paper trail that could potentially incriminate Trump.
MSN – Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) | Published: 4/28/2024
Internal FirstEnergy documents offer a candid look at how and why operatives use anonymous political giving to influence Ohio’s elected officials. “Our preferred manner of giving is through section 501(c) groups as these are considered ‘dark money’ because they are not required to disclose where the donations come from,” then-company lobbyist Michael Dowling wrote. FirstEnergy admitted to using “dark money” groups to bribe ex-House Speaker Larry Householder and others to ensure a bill’s passage.
MSN – Hillary Borrud (Portland Oregonian) | Published: 4/27/2024
Top staffers for Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek expressed concerns internally in recent months over the degree to which the governor and her wife, Aimee Kotek Wilson, sought to use the perks and powers of the governor’s office to benefit the first lady. In emails, the high-level aides worried about the impact that Kotek Wilson’s growing role might have on the governors’ office budget, as well as public trust, accountability, and the success of the administration.
Oregon – Portland Shelter Operator Urban Alchemy Accused of Violating City Lobbying Rules
OPB – Alex Zielinski | Published: 5/1/2024
Urban Alchemy, the nonprofit running many of Portland’s homeless shelters, violated the city’s lobbying rules two years ago, according to an audit. Urban Alchemy spent a significant amount of money and time with officials in 2022 to convince the city that the nonprofit should run Portland’s alternative shelter sites. But auditors found it failed to register and report the lobbying activity with the city.
May 2, 2024 •
Subscriber Benefit — Ask the Expert — is #1
![Subscriber Benefit — Ask the Expert — is #1](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Stock-images-for-blog-19-1000x563.png)
A few years ago, we added a tab on our website and called it Ask the Expert. Subscribers could pose a question about the content of our online guidebooks. We found this to be a great value add for our […]
A few years ago, we added a tab on our website and called it Ask the Expert. Subscribers could pose a question about the content of our online guidebooks. We found this to be a great value add for our clients.
- You mentioned a change in Louisiana. When will that go into effect?
- Should our state folks track federal activity if they are not registered?
- How can I amend a report we filed in Tennessee?
These are great questions, and we are happy to help.
However, two things have happened since we started.
- Our clients have a lot of questions. Most of the questions deal with definitions from the states along with clarification of dates.
- Michael Beckett has been terribly busy. Michael is our Associate Director of Research with six managers working for him. Whatever the district, he can route it to an attorney for a response.
We want to be of assistance to our subscribers when there are questions. We just need to make sure we have all the information.
Subscriber benefits are designed to include inquiries about the content of our online guidebook. Questions requiring novel research, application of subject matter, and projects involving multiple districts are outside the scope of this program.
We want to make sure we have all the information needed to answer your questions, and it helps if we can set up an agreement to assist you with your concerns. This does not move you over to our Consulting work. It just makes sure both sides are protected, and the cost is minimal.
Lobbying compliance is not easy, and we know you have other business to handle for your organization. We can help you at any level.
Until next month, prepare for the busy summer schedule of meetings being held everywhere, and Ask the Expert if you are stumped.
See you on the road.
Thank you.
Elizabeth Z. Bartz
@elizabethbartz
May 2, 2024 •
Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Thursday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance California: “California Passed a Law to Stop ‘Pay to Play’ in Local Politics. After Two Years, Legislators Want to Gut It” by Yue Stella Yu for CalMatters National: “Federal Elections Regulator from Texas Has Ted Cruz Campaign Sign in Front Yard” by […]
Campaign Finance
California: “California Passed a Law to Stop ‘Pay to Play’ in Local Politics. After Two Years, Legislators Want to Gut It” by Yue Stella Yu for CalMatters
National: “Federal Elections Regulator from Texas Has Ted Cruz Campaign Sign in Front Yard” by Joseph Morton (Dallas Morning News) for MSN
Massachusetts: “Cape Lawmaker Repeatedly Lied to State Regulators Investigating His 2022 Election” by Gintautas Dumicus for CommonWealth Beacon
New York: “State Campaigns Are About to Rake in $100 Million of Public Funding – While Also Spending All the Private Money They Want” by Alyssa Katz for New York Focus
Ethics
Arkansas: “Gosses Sentenced in Bribery Scheme That Included Former Arkansas Lawmakers” by Ron Wood for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
National: “When Judges Get Free Trips to Luxury Resorts, Disclosure Is Spotty” by Tom Dreisbach and Carrie Johnson (NPR) for Texas Public Radio
Lobbying
Oregon: “Portland’s Homeless Services Contractor Urban Alchemy Violated Lobbying Rules” by Nicole Hayden (Portland Oregonian) for MSN
Redistricting
Louisiana: “Federal Judges Strike Down La. Congressional Map with Second Black-Majority District” by Maegan Vazquez and Patrick Marley (Washington Post) for MSN
May 1, 2024 •
Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Wednesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance National: “How Online Donations Are Fueling the Election” by Jessica Piper, Paula Friedrich, Anna Wiederkehr, and Madison Fernandez for Politico Illinois: “At Secret Meeting, Right-Wing Radio Host Dan Proft Dangled $20 Million to Darren Bailey’s Governor Run” by Rick Pearson (Chicago […]
Campaign Finance
National: “How Online Donations Are Fueling the Election” by Jessica Piper, Paula Friedrich, Anna Wiederkehr, and Madison Fernandez for Politico
Illinois: “At Secret Meeting, Right-Wing Radio Host Dan Proft Dangled $20 Million to Darren Bailey’s Governor Run” by Rick Pearson (Chicago Tribune) for Yahoo News
Ethics
National: “They Staffed the Jan. 6 Committee. Threats Still Follow Them” by Chris Marquette and Michael Macagnone (Roll Call) for MSN
Kentucky: “Judge Reverses Ethics Charge Against Alison Lundergan Grimes” by Austin Horn (Lexington Herald-Leader) for Yahoo News
Missouri: “Missouri House Ethics Panel Drops Probe of Dean Plocher After Blocking Push to Release Evidence” by Rudi Keller for Missouri Independent
New York: “Judge’s Contempt Punishment Takes Aim at Trump’s Tendency to Lie” by Alan Feuer, Ben Protess, Jonah Bromwich, and William Rashbaum (New York Times) for DNyuz
Oregon: “Tina Kotek Staffers Raised Concerns About Using Powers, Perks of Governor’s Office for Wife, Records Show” by Hillary Borrud (Portland Oregonian) for MSN
Legislative Issues
Minnesota: “DFL Sen. Nicole Mitchell Returns to Capitol After Burglary Charge, Casts Votes Amid Criticism” by Ryan Faircloth (Minneapolis Star Tribune) for MSN
April 30, 2024 •
Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Tuesday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance Maryland: “How Publicly Financed Campaigns Are Working in Baltimore” by Adam Willis and Emily Sullivan for Baltimore Banner Ohio: “FirstEnergy Document Trove Reveals Dark Money’s Extensive Influence Over Ohio Politics. Here’s How It Works.” by Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN […]
Campaign Finance
Maryland: “How Publicly Financed Campaigns Are Working in Baltimore” by Adam Willis and Emily Sullivan for Baltimore Banner
Ohio: “FirstEnergy Document Trove Reveals Dark Money’s Extensive Influence Over Ohio Politics. Here’s How It Works.” by Andrew Tobias (Cleveland Plain Dealer) for MSN
Ethics
Hawaii: “Ethics Chief Robert Harris: Give legislators their due, but keep pushing for more reform” by Richard Wiens for Honolulu Civil Beat
Massachusetts: “Massachusetts Water Employees Pay Fines for Accepting Free Ski Trips, Red Sox Tickets, Rooftop Drinks at The Envoy Hotel” by Rick Sobey for Boston Herald
National: “Democrats, Political Figures Dogpile onto Trump VP Hopeful After Story of Animal Killings” by Maegan Vazquez (Washington Post) for MSN
New Jersey: “This N.J. Agency Calls Out Political Corruption. Politicians Want More Control Over It.” by Jelani Gibson and Susan Livio (NJ Advance Media) for MSN
Legislative Issues
National: “A Ukraine-Born Congresswoman Voted No on Aid. Her Hometown Feels Betrayed” by Siobhán O’Grady, Anastacia Galouchka, and Marianna Sotomayor (Washington Post) for MSN
National: “Push to Restrict LGBTQ+ Rights Hits a Snag in State Legislatures” by Casey Parks (Washington Post) for MSN
April 29, 2024 •
Tennessee Legislature Adjourns Sine Die
![Tennessee Legislature Adjourns Sine Die](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Tennessee-capitol-blog-1000x563.jpg)
Tennessee State Capitol Building
The Tennessee Legislature adjourned sine die on April 25. Notable passed legislation included a bill to allow armed teachers in classrooms; a bill establishing new penalties for PACs; and a bill providing a $1.9 billion tax cut and refund for […]
The Tennessee Legislature adjourned sine die on April 25.
Notable passed legislation included a bill to allow armed teachers in classrooms; a bill establishing new penalties for PACs; and a bill providing a $1.9 billion tax cut and refund for businesses.
The tax cut created contention as it was formed to remedy a tax that purportedly violated the constitution’s commerce clause.
April 29, 2024 •
Iowa Legislature Adjourns Sine Die
![Iowa Legislature Adjourns Sine Die](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Iowa-Capitol-2-1000x563.jpg)
Iowa Capitol Building - Ashton B Crew
The second regular session of the 90th Iowa General Assembly adjourned sine die early in the morning on Saturday, April 20 after an all-night session. Lawmakers are only paid for 100 days and worked 104 days to agree on a […]
The second regular session of the 90th Iowa General Assembly adjourned sine die early in the morning on Saturday, April 20 after an all-night session.
Lawmakers are only paid for 100 days and worked 104 days to agree on a budget.
Republicans control both houses and passed many of the proposals outlined in Gov. Reynolds January address, including consolidating many boards and commissions by eliminating 83 unelected boards and commissions and requiring an annual review process of boards and commissions.
April 29, 2024 •
Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup
![Monday’s LobbyComply News Roundup](https://stateandfed.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/LCNR-scaled-e1662491441383-1000x563.jpg)
Campaign Finance National: “Government Watchdog Alleges Trump Campaign Broke the Law Trying to Hide Legal Payments” by Zach Anderson (USA Today) for Yahoo News Elections National: “States Move to Label Deepfake Political Ads” by Gopal Ratnam for Roll Call Ethics California: “Legislative Non-Disclosure Agreement Bill […]
Campaign Finance
National: “Government Watchdog Alleges Trump Campaign Broke the Law Trying to Hide Legal Payments” by Zach Anderson (USA Today) for Yahoo News
Elections
National: “States Move to Label Deepfake Political Ads” by Gopal Ratnam for Roll Call
Ethics
California: “Legislative Non-Disclosure Agreement Bill Fails First Vote in California Committee” by Alan Riquelmy for Courthouse News Service
Massachusetts: “DA Kevin Hayden Pays $5,000 Ethics Fine Over Controversial Primary” by Molly Farrar (Boston.com) for MSN
National: “Gateway Pundit to File for Bankruptcy Amid Election Conspiracy Lawsuits” by Will Sommer (Washington Post) for MSN
New Jersey: “Assembly Speaker’s Law Firm Has Made Millions Since He Took Power. Critics Cry Foul.” by Riley Yates and Brent Johnson (NJ Advance Media) for MSN
Texas: “Criticism, Praise of Texas Governor After Dramatic Use of Troopers on Protesters” by Molly Hennessy-Fiske and Patrick Svitek (Washington Post) for MSN
Legislative Issues
Arizona: “GOP Ethics Complaints Target 2 Arizona House Democrats for ‘Attempted Insurrection'” by Mary Jo Pitzl for Arizona Republic
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