October 28, 2013 •
Monday News Roundup
Let’s start off the week with these lobbying, campaign finance, and ethics news articles:
Lobbying
“Exclusive: Washington lobbying law firm in merger talks – sources” by Casey Sullivan in Reuters.
Nevada: “Public policy maker or private lobbyist? 10 state officials play dual roles” by Andrew Doughman in the Las Vegas Sun.
Campaign Finance
Delaware: “Delaware Faces Lawsuit Over Campaign Finance Law That Targets Political Speech” by Ed Krayewski in Reason.com.
Michigan: “Michigan investigating Bernero, aides after campaign finance complaint” by Kristen M. Daum in the Detroit Free Press.
Nevada: “Sandoval campaign offers perks for cash” by Sandra Chereb (Associated Press) in the Miami Herald.
New Jersey: “Special interest groups exert growing influence in N.J. campaigns” by Matt Friedman in The Star-Ledger.
New York: “State limit on donations in doubt” by Rick Karlin in the Times Union.
Wisconsin: “Wisconsin lawmakers rake in special interest money” by Donovan Slack in the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
Ethics
California: “Settlement is last hurrah for campaign finance watchdog Ann Ravel” by Chris Megerian in the Los Angeles Times.
California: “Calif., PACs reach $1M campaign-finance settlement” by The Associated Press in the Las Vegas Sun.
California: “L.A. moves to boost limits on gifts to lawmakers” by David Zahniser in the Los Angeles Times.
Florida: “Ethics Commission wants more time for Fresen case” by James Call in the Florida Current.
Georgia: “Jordan to join Ga. ethics commission” by Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) I the Athens Banner-Herald.
Iowa: “Iowa Senate ethics rule protects the ‘first-in-the-nation’ franchise” by James Q. Lynch in the Sioux City Journal.
New York: “Job interview raises ethical questions” by James M. Odato in the Times Union.
Oklahoma: “Jurors at political bribery trial see negative side of Oklahoma Legislature” by Nolan Clay in The Oklahoman.
Texas: “Regulating Campaigns and Lobbying, Seen and Unseen” by Ross Ramsey in the Texas Tribune.
Elections
“2013 Legislative Elections: Fierce but Few” by Daniel C. Vock in Stateline.
From the State Legislatures
Hawaii: “Hawaii lawmakers to hold special session to consider gay marriage” by Malia Mattoch and Suzanne Roig in Reuters.
Montana: “Montana legislators debate rolling back term limits” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.
October 25, 2013 •
News You Can Use Digest – October 25, 2013
Here are highlights from the latest edition of News You Can Use:
National:
Lobbying Bonanza as Firms Try to Influence European Union
New York Times – Eric Lipton Danny Hakim | Published: 10/18/2013
As the European Union has emerged as a regulatory superpower, its policies have become ever more important to corporations operating across borders. In turn, the lobbying business in Brussels has become larger and more competitive, rivaled only by Washington, D.C. Some say American law firms are undercutting efforts to bring more transparency to lobbying in the Belgian capital, citing lawyer-client confidentiality to evade a government-backed but voluntary disclosure effort.
State Pro-Business Organizations Are Publicly Funded, but Privately Controlled
The Center for Public Integrity – Nicholas Kusnetz | Published: 10/23/2013
Some states have given control over corporate tax incentives to public-private partnerships that are often run by the states’ most influential businesspeople. Supporters say these partnerships are more nimble than government bureaucracies and are insulated from electoral politics. But much of the spending remains secret. Even most public agencies do not disclose the recipients of all the incentives because of tax privacy laws.
Federal:
Cassidy Lobby Shop Goes Social
Washington Post – Catherine Ho | Published: 10/18/2013
With the lobbying business at a standstill on K Street, even big firms such as Cassidy & Associates have to embrace new ways of reaching policymakers and clients to protect their bottom lines. Cassidy has been trying to attract visitors to its Web site, which the firm has spent the last year overhauling to attract more potential clients through Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
From the States and Municipalities:
Alabama – Alabama Considers Creating Election Commission
San Francisco Chronicle – Philip Rawls (Associated Press) | Published: 10/19/2013
Candidates have to report their contributions and expenditures to the Alabama secretary of state, but little is being done to make sure the reports are filed accurately. Some lawmakers said the solution could be to create a small state agency similar to the Federal Elections Commission.
California – FPPC Fines Arizona Group $1 Million for Campaign Finance Violations
Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 10/24/2013
The California Fair Political Practices Commission levied a combined $1 million fine against Americans for Responsible Leadership and the Center to Protect Patient Rights for illegally funneling millions of dollars into a pair of ballot measure campaigns in 2012.
California – Riverside County Supervisors to Amend Campaign Finance Rules
Desert Sun; City News Service – | Published: 10/22/2013
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors amended campaign finance regulations so candidates or PACs will, beginning January 1, 2014, have to electronically post details of a contribution within 10 days if the amount meets or exceeds $1,000. The revision affects candidates for assessor-clerk-recorder, auditor-controller, district attorney, judge, sheriff, supervisor, superintendent of schools, and treasurer-tax collector, as well as sponsors of ballot measures that are countywide in scope.
District of Columbia – Campaign Finance Reform Will Get D.C. Council Vote Next Month
Washington Post – Mike DeBonis | Published: 10/22/2013
The District of Columbia Council will vote on a package of campaign finance reforms as soon as November 5. The changes would restrict the ability of different companies owned by the same people to donate to the same candidate, require lobbyists to disclose their bundling of campaign contributions, and require political committees to report donations of $10,000 or more they believe to have been bundled, among other provisions.
Georgia – Commissioner: State auditor to handle ethics probe
Columbus Republic – Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) | Published: 10/22/2013
The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts will investigate concerns surrounding the state ethics commission and its handling of complaints involving Gov. Nathan Deal. State Auditor Greg Griffin was initially appointed by the governor since the job became open outside of a legislative session. That connection to Deal drew criticism from Senate Minority Leader Steve Henson, who called the decision a “travesty of justice,” and said a special prosecutor would have been a better option.
Hawaii – Ethics Probe into Honolulu Mayor Sparks Talk of Reform
Honolulu Civil Beat – Nick Grube | Published: 10/18/2013
Ethical questions have been raised about a luau to celebrate the inauguration of Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, including whether it was a vehicle used by city contractors and lobbyists to curry favor with the new mayor. It has also opened up the debate over whether Honolulu’s ethics laws need to be strengthened to close any loopholes regarding gift-giving.
Michigan – Activists ‘Make it Rain’ in Michigan House, Drop Fake Million Dollar Bills on Lawmakers
MLive.com – Jonathan Oosting | Published: 10/23/2013
Anti-corruption protesters shouted from the Michigan House gallery as they showered state lawmakers with fake million dollar bills. The national group Represent Us says Michigan has one of the worst records of government corruption in the nation. It pulled a similar stunt in the New York Senate this June.
Montana – Montana Legislature Committee Hears Divide over Political Practices Job
The Missoulian – Charles Johnson | Published: 10/22/2013
The Legislature’s State Administration and Veterans’ Affairs Committee is studying Montana’s political practices office and looking at how other states regulate of campaign finances, ethics, and lobbyist and disclosure. Any recommendations will go to the 2015 Legislature for consideration. Those testifying before the committee offered divergent opinions about the role of the office and how it should be structured.
New York – Group Supporting Lhota Can Accept Unlimited Donations, Court Says
New York Times – Thomas Kaplan | Published: 10/24/2013
A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit ruled a political committee created to support New York City mayoral candidate Joseph Lhota can accept contributions above the $150,000 annual limit for individuals set by state law. The judges said the state’s cap on donations to independent political groups was probably unconstitutional.
New York – New Bill Would Require Businesses Seeking State Contracts to Detail Donations to Governor
New York Daily News – Ken Lovett | Published: 10/22/2013
A bill introduced recently in the New York Legislature would require businesses seeking state agency contracts to make public a list of all campaign contributions made to the governor and others in the executive branch. Before any contract could be awarded, the companies would have to detail all donations from the business, its subsidiaries, key employees, and their spouses over the preceding 18 month period.
Texas – 5th Circ. Axes Texas Ban on Corporate PAC Donations
Law360.com – Jeremy Heallen | Published: 10/16/2013
The Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Texas cannot bar PACs from soliciting corporate donations, making it the fourth Circuit Court to uphold indirect corporate political contributions since the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United ruling. Texans for Free Enterprise, a PAC that does not contribute directly to campaigns but solicits donations to run ads supporting or opposing candidates, had challenged the law.
Washington – Wash. AG Still Seeking Penalty against Food Industry Group That Didn’t Disclose Donors
Columbus Republic – Mike Baker (Associated Press) | Published: 10/22/2013
Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson will move ahead with a lawsuit filed against the Grocery Manufacturers Association. Ferguson said he will still seek penalties from the group, which recently identified donors who contributed money to oppose a food labeling initiative. The attorney general said the case involved concealing a record-setting amount of donations and there must be sanctions for violating the law.
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.
October 23, 2013 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Here is our roundup of the latest articles on lobbying, campaign finance, ethics, and more!
Lobbying
“Lobbying World” in The Hill.
Campaign Finance
District of Columbia: “Campaign finance reform will get D.C. Council vote next month” by Mike DeBonis in The Washington Post.
Kentucky: “Outside groups spend millions to sway Ky. senate race” by Joseph Gerth in The Courier-Journal.
Ethics
Georgia: “State auditor to investigate Deal, ethics commission” by Christina A. Cassidy in the Athens Banner-Herald.
Elections
Washington: “Washington state special election could decide party control” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.
Tech and Social Media
“Now You Can Petition Some Members of Congress Directly” by Joseph Marks in Nextgov.
“Farewell to The Thicket” by Karl Kurtz in NCSL’s The Thicket. The Thicket will be absorbed by the NCSL blog found here.
October 22, 2013 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Keep up with the latest government relations news with these articles:
Lobbying
“There’s no sunrise yet on K Street” by Kevin Bogardus and Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“The state of K Street: Flat” by Byron Tau in Politico Influence.
“Major oil group boosts lobbying” by Ben Geman in The Hill.
“Facebook Lobbyist to Head Up Cory Booker’s Senate Staff” by Andrew Ramonas in the Blog of the Legal Times.
Campaign Finance
Arizona: “Horne denies campaign finance wrongdoing” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Star.
Montana: “Appeal filed over documents tied to dark money” by The Associated Press in the Billings Gazette.
Ethics
Georgia: “Ethics commission chair: Board close to finalizing plan for outside investigation” by Christina A. Cassidy (Associated Press) in The Republic.
Elections
“More female governors expected after 2014” by Emily Schultheis in Politico.
Redistricting
Alaska: “Alaska Redistricting Board to meet” by The Associated Press in the Anchorage Daily News.
October 22, 2013 •
Philadelphia Board of Ethics Proposes Gift Limits
Ethics watchdogs say limits are too low
The city Board of Ethics has proposed new gift regulations designed to clarify what is and is not permitted under the city code. The proposed limits would allow city officers and employees to accept gifts of up to $200 per year from a single source, including cash gifts up to $50. Currently, only gifts of substantial economic value given with the expectation of influencing the public official or employee are prohibited.
City watchdogs have criticized the proposed limits as being too lenient, but ethics board member Sanjuanita Gonzales suggested those limits could be subject to change after public input.
A hearing on the proposed regulations is scheduled for November 20.
October 21, 2013 •
Honolulu Ethics Commission Seeks to Avoid Future Pay-to-Play Concerns
New Gift Law Provisions Created
Honolulu Mayor Caldwell and his transitional team came under the review of the city Ethics Commission recently for potential violations of gift law. The Commission found no violations due to a lack of established ethical guidelines but placed restrictions on future donations for inaugural or transitional purposes.
Safeguards put in place to avoid pay-to-play concerns include mandatory public disclosure of all donations, including the amount of and use for each, prohibition against asking current or prospective city officers or employees to solicit or make contributions, and requiring each donor/contributor to confirm he or she is not a registered lobbyist and has no future business with the city in which the administration is likely to be involved.
The Commission further held donations used to support legitimate government purposes, such as the transition between administrations and the official inaugural ceremony, are gifts to the city.
October 21, 2013 •
Monday News Roundup
Let’s start off the week with these lobbying, campaign finance, and ethics news articles:
Lobbying
“Lobbying bonanza as US firms try to influence EU” by Eric Lipton and Danny Hakim on CNBC News.
“Clustering Near the Seat of Power” in The New York Times.
“Lobbyists Ready for a New Fight on U.S. Spending” by Eric Lipton in The New York Times.
“Cassidy lobby shop goes social” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post.
Maine: “New lobbying group to represent owners of Maine franchises” by Jessica Hall in the Kennebec Journal.
Tennessee: “Ingram filings call him Haslam campaign consultant” by Andy Sher in the Times Free Press.
Campaign Finance
“Get Over It: Campaign Finance Limits Don’t Work” by James Oliphant in National Journal.
“Washington’s open secret: Profitable PACs” by Steve Kroft on CBS News’ 60 Minutes.
“Pepsi, Coke, Nestle among brands donating to effort vs. labeling genetically modified foods” by Mike Baker (Associated Press) in The Republic.
Montana: “Bullock campaign violated campaign finance law” by Manee Banks in KXLH News.
Texas: “Court Nixes Texas Ban on Corporate PAC Donations” by Jack Bouboushian in the Courthouse News Service.
Ethics
Alabama: “Alabama considers creating election commission” by Phillip Rawls (Associated Press) in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Hawaii: “Ethics Probe into Honolulu Mayor Sparks Talk of Reform” by Nick Grube in the Honolulu Civil Beat.
“Texas: APNewsBreak: Patrick PAC paid his radio station” by Will Weissert (Associated Press) in the Miami Herald.
Redistricting
Arizona: “Arizona redistricting panel running out of money” by The Associated Press in KSAZ TV News.
Tech and Social Media
“Legislative panel to take up Facebook access” by The Associated Press in the Juneau Empire.
October 18, 2013 •
News You Can Use Digest – October 18, 2013
Here are highlights from the latest edition of News You Can Use:
Federal:
Business Groups Stand by Boehner, Plot against Tea Party
Washington Post – Jia Lynn Yang and Tom Hamburger | Published: 10/17/2013
Rather than revisit their strategy of supporting Republicans after the stand-off that nearly drove the country to a debt default, influential organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are standing behind U.S. House Speaker John Boehner. More importantly, Boehner’s friends in the business community are getting ready to take sides in a few GOP primary races against tea party candidates in Michigan, Idaho, and Alabama who could cause him more trouble.
Lobbyists’ Lobbying Group Wants a New Name – One That Doesn’t Mention Lobbying
Washington Post – Holly Yeager | Published: 10/15/2013
The board of directors for the American League of Lobbyists has made its choice for the organization’s new name: the Association of Government Relations Professionals. The group’s bylaws require two-thirds approval by its members before the name can be changed. There have been surveys and other research revealing a majority of members no longer identify themselves only as lobbyists.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arizona – Court Blocks New Arizona Campaign Finance Law; Opens Door for Candidates to Receive More Money
East Valley Tribune – Howard Fischer (Capitol Media Services) | Published: 10/15/2013
The Arizona Court of Appeals issued a preliminary injunction against the state’s higher campaign contribution limits. The order directs Secretary of State Ken Bennett not to enforce the law. The ruling makes it likely the state will turn to the Arizona Supreme Court to review the case.
Arizona – Ex-Phoenix Lobbyist Indicted over Contributions
San Francisco Chronicle; Associated Press – | Published: 10/10/2013
Gary Husk, a once influential lobbyist in Phoenix whose key clients included the Fiesta Bowl, has been charged with eight felonies for using his firm’s money to reimburse staff after directing them to make specific campaign contributions. The donations went to high-profile politicians with whom Husk sought access and influence, including Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer.
California – Bob Filner, Former San Diego Mayor, Pleads Guilty to Criminal Charges
New York Times – Rob Davis and Adam Nagourney | Published: 10/15/2013
Former San Diego Mayor Bob Filner pleaded guilty to three criminal counts related to the sexual harassment allegations that drove him from office after a summer of scandal. Filner pleaded guilty to one criminal count of false imprisonment by violence, fraud, menace, and deceit, and two misdemeanor counts of battery. Sentencing was set for December 9, and documents indicate he will get three years of probation and no prison time.
Colorado – Colo. Pot Advocates File Unusual Campaign Finance Report
CBS News; Associated Press – | Published: 10/17/2013
No Over Taxation, a group that had distributed free marijuana cigarettes at a rally opposing possible new taxes in Colorado, filed a disclosure report saying the joints were worth $1,250, and were paid for by a lawyer funding its campaign. Colorado Ethics Watch had filed a complaint alleging the marijuana was an in-kind campaign contribution and the anti-tax group had failed to initially report it.
Georgia – FBI Contacts Attorney in Ethics Case
Augusta Chronicle – Christina Cassidy (Associated Press) | Published: 10/10/2013
FBI agents have questioned Georgia ethics commission attorney Elisabeth Murray-Obertein, who raised concerns about the panel’s investigation into Gov. Nathan Deal. Murray-Obertein is a key figure in the allegations lodged in a pair of whistle-blower lawsuits accusing commission Executive Secretary Holly LaBerge of bragging about her relationship with Deal and saying he “owed her” after the agency dismissed the most serious campaign finance complaints raised in its investigation of the governor.
Hawaii – Circuit Hears Hawaii Campaign Finance Case
Courthouse News Service – Tim Hull | Published: 10/14/2013
A-1 A-Lectrician, Inc. sued the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission in 2010, arguing the state’s non-candidate committee donation caps, advertising definition, disclaimer requirements, and ban on government contractors donating to candidates were all unconstitutional. The case is now before a panel of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which hinted it may delay a ruling until the U.S. Supreme Court decides a similar case.
Michigan – Bobby Ferguson Sentenced to Serve 21 Years in Federal Prison for Corruption
Detroit Free Press – Jim Schaefer, Tammy Staples Battaglia, and Eric Lawrence | Published: 10/11/2013
Bobby Ferguson, the friend and favorite construction contractor of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison. Ferguson was convicted of nine felonies, including racketeering and bribery. He was accused of illegally securing $70 million in city contracts through his friendship with the ex-mayor, who was sentenced to 28 years in prison for his role in the extortion and racketeering scheme.
Montana – State of Montana Slaps Conservative ‘Dark Money’ Groups for Campaign Violations
The Missoulian – Mike Dennison | Published: 10/17/2013
Montana Commissioner of Political Practices Jonathan Motl said he found sufficient evidence to show Western Tradition Partnership violated state campaign finance law in a 2010 Republican House primary race. Motl found the “dark-money” group, now known as American Tradition Partnership, illegally coordinated campaign expenditures with candidate Dan Kennedy.
New York – Judge Rejects Bid by PAC to Raise Large Sums for Lhota
Wall Street Journal – Andrew Grossman | Published: 10/17/2013
U.S. District Court Judge Paul Crotty rejected a request by New York Progress and Protection PAC to overturn a state law that prohibits individuals from giving more than $150,000 each year to campaigns and political committees. Crotty said granting the injunction would be disruptive because it would come too close to the November 5 election.
Pennsylvania – Philly Ethics Board Proposal Allows $200 Limit on Gifts
Philadelphia Inquirer – Claudia Vargas | Published: 10/17/2013
The Philadelphia Board of Ethics has drafted a list of regulations that are supposed to better explain what is allowed under the current code for “gifts, loans, and favors to city personnel.” For example, the proposal would allow city officers and employees to accept gifts of up to $200 in value per year from any single source. A hearing on the proposed regulations is scheduled for November 20.
Virginia – Star Scientific Chief Thought McDonnell Was Helping Firm Get State Funding
Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman and Carol Leoning | Published: 10/11/2013
Star Scientific Chief Executive Officer Jonnie Williams Sr. has told federal investigators he believed Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell was helping his company get funding from the state’s tobacco commission at the same time that Williams was giving money and gifts to the governor and his family. Under federal law, it can be illegal for elected officials to agree to take official actions in exchange for gifts or money, even if they do not ultimately follow through on their promises or have the power to do so.
Washington – Washington State Sues Lobbyists over Campaign against GMO Labeling
Reuters – Carey Gillam | Published: 10/16/2013
The state of Washington filed a lawsuit alleging the Grocery Manufacturers Association illegally collected and spent more than $7 million while shielding the identity of its donors in an effort to oppose Ballot Initiative 522, which would require labeling of genetically modified foods. The attorney general’s office is asking the court to order the group to immediately comply with state disclosure laws. It also said it would seek civil penalties.
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.
October 16, 2013 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Here is our roundup of the latest articles on lobbying, campaign finance, ethics, and more!
Lobbying
“Lights! Cameras! Action on K Street” by Kevin Bogardus on The Hill.
“Bottom Line” in The Hill.
New York: “Lobbying spending dips in NY to lowest in 5 years” by Joseph Spector in the Democrat and Chronicle.
New York: “JCOPE Mid-Year lobbying data is out” by Rick Karlin in the Times Union.
Campaign Finance
“Why striking down campaign contribution limits might make politics better” by John Sides in The Washington Post.
“The Political-Monetary Complex” op-ed by Thomas B. Edsall in The New York Times.
“Extra! Extra!! Get your real time campaign finance data here!!!” by Jacob Fenton in the Sunlight Foundation blog.
Arizona: “Arizona court blocks new campaign finance law” by Howard Fischer in the Arizona Daily Star.
New Jersey: “N.J. election spending soars: Political groups’ $21M shatters Jersey record” by Michael Linhorst in The Record.
Ethics
New York: “NY corruption commission expands probes” by Michael Gormley (Associated Press) in the Connecticut Post.
Redistricting
North Carolina: “N.C. panel calling for fairer redistricting scheduled to meet” by The Associated Press in the News & Record.
Tech and Social Media
Maryland: “Hough argues for webcasting committee votes, floor sessions” by Bethany Rodgers in The Frederick News-Post.
October 15, 2013 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Keep up with the latest government relations news with these articles:
Lobbying
“Lobbyists’ lobbying group wants a new name — one that doesn’t mention lobbying” by Holly Yeager in The Washington Post.
Campaign Finance
“No, overturning campaign contribution limits really would be a problem” opinion piece by Bob Biersack in The Washington Post.
“The next, next Citizens United” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.
“McCutcheon v. FEC: Why it matters” by Jerad Najvar and Dan Backer in The Daily Caller.
Missouri: “Candidates to file campaign finance reports with Missouri Ethics Commission” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
New Mexico: “Candidates face campaign finance report deadline” by The Associated Press in KFDA News.
Ethics
Missouri: “St. Louis Firefighters PAC fined for campaign violations in St. Louis mayoral race” by Nick Pistor in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
New York: “Lawsuit: Silver breached ‘contract’” by James M. Odato in the Times Union.
Open Government
“Mass. lawmakers weighing public records bills” by The Associated Press in the Boston Herald.
October 14, 2013 •
Monday News Roundup
Let’s start off the week with these lobbying, campaign finance, and ethics news articles:
Lobbying
“Abramoff Talks Lobbying” by Sam Abrams in The Hoya.
“Lobbyist Who Doesn’t Lobby Still Gets Paid” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine Blog.
Nevada: “State lawmaker hired as lobbyist for medical marijuana bill he helped pass” by Andrew Doughman in the Las Vegas Sun.
Campaign Finance
Michigan: “Andy Dillon’s campaign investigated over handling of $130,000 loan” by Paul Egan in the Detroit Free Press.
Ohio: “Federal trial of North Canton businessman on campaign finance charges scheduled for June 2014” by James F. McCarty in The Plain Dealer.
Ethics
California: “San Diego mayoral PAC fined for ethics violations” by The Associated Press in The Sacramento Bee.
Illinois: “IDOT official out over Sandoval fund-raising flap” by Chris Fusco in the Chicago Sun-Times.
Rhode Island: “Political Scene: Ethics panel clears 6 of ‘revolving door’ conflict” by Philip Marcelo, Katherine Gregg and Randal Edgar in the Providence Journal.
South Carolina: “Gov. Nikki Haley describes ethics fine as ‘business expense’ in campaign report” by Corey Hutchins in the Charleston City Paper.
October 11, 2013 •
News You Can Use Digest – October 11, 2013
Here are highlights from the latest edition of News You Can Use:
Federal:
A Federal Budget Crisis Months in the Planning
New York Times – Sheryl Gay Stolberg and Mike McIntire | Published: 10/5/2013
A New York Times article detailed a plan among conservative activists to derail the Affordable Care Act. The outside groups believed the GOP could stop the health care overhaul if conservative lawmakers were willing to push fellow Republicans into cutting off financing for the entire federal government. The report said the billionaire Koch brothers, Charles and David, have been deeply involved with financing the overall effort.
Supreme Court Skeptical of Limits on Federal Campaign Contributions
Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 10/8/2013
The U.S. Supreme Court seemed prepared to strike down a part of federal campaign finance law left intact by its decision in Citizens United in 2010: overall limits on direct contributions from individuals to candidates. The justices seemed to divide along familiar ideological lines, and they expressed different understandings of the role of money and free speech in American politics.
From the States and Municipalities:
Arizona – Portion of Campaign Finance Law Overturned
Arizona Republic – Edward Gately | Published: 10/4/2013
U.S. District Court Judge James Teilborg ruled the part of Arizona’s campaign finance law that defines political committees is unconstitutional. But the law will remain in effect pending an injunction or until lawmakers can address the problems. “We will likely file an injunction to basically put everything on hold until the Legislature can convene in January,” said Stephanie Grisham, a spokesperson for the state attorney general’s office.
California – Assemblyman Offers to Suit up Campaign Donors
Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 10/8/2013
California Assemblyperson Henry Perea is raising campaign money by offering donors a custom suit in exchange for a $2,000 contribution. A number of lobbyists said the fundraiser puts participants in an ethical quandary, leaving them with a valuable gift, while some women said it is excluding them by only offering suits for men.
California – California Strategies Walks Line between Lobbying and Public Affairs
Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 10/6/2013
California Strategies is not the only public affairs firm in Sacramento that offers clients a variety of services requiring a careful dance along the line that separates lobbying from less regulated forms of advocacy. But it has been a target of competitors who say the firm’s approach creates an uneven playing field – it has a long list of partners who have deep connections inside government but do not register as lobbyists.
Colorado – Complaint: Free weed at rally not reported
Grand Junction Daily Sentinel – Charles Ashby | Published: 10/8/2013
No Over Taxation has given out free marijuana at rallies in Denver and Boulder to convince voters to oppose Proposition AA, a ballot measure that would impose taxes on recreational pot when it becomes available for sale in Colorado next year. Colorado Ethics Watch filed a complaint contending the donors that contributed the marijuana should have been identified in No Over Taxation’s campaign finance reports as providing in-kind donations, but were not.
Florida – Hays and Ring: Forget auditing lobbyists; repeal the law
Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 10/7/2013
After media attention to lobbyists’ pay, Florida legislative leaders agreed to kick-start legally required audits of those paid to influence lawmakers and state officials. The Legislature’s joint auditing committee was told the random audits of some two-dozen firms could cost in excess of $1 million, sparking criticism from some on the panel.
Georgia – Ex-Ethics Commission Employee in Georgia Says Docs Altered
Chattanooga Times Free Press; Associated Press – | Published: 10/9/2013
John Hair, a former Georgia ethics commission computer specialist, said he removed, changed, and condensed documents from the investigative file of complaints accusing Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal of misusing campaign funds in the 2010 election. Hair said he was fulfilling orders from commission Executive Secretary Holly LaBerge and her top aide, Lisa Dentler.
Massachusetts – Cardinal O’Malley Invites Lawmakers to a Get-Together
Boston Globe – Jim O’Sullivan and Lisa Wagsness | Published: 10/9/2013
Cardinal Sean O’Malley, the Roman Catholic archbishop of Boston, will meet with the Massachusetts lawmakers who represent cities and towns within the archdiocese in what one of his aides described as “relationship building.” The church does not command the presence on Beacon Hill that it did years ago, when it played a much more prominent role in society. Some lawmakers remain angry at what they viewed as overly aggressive lobbying techniques that church lobbyists and some priests used in opposing same-sex marriage
Michigan – Ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick Sentenced to 28 Years in Prison for Corruption
Washington Post; Associated Press – | Published: 10/10/2013
Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick was sentenced to 28 years in prison on his conviction for public corruption charges including bribery and extortion that prosecutors said exacerbated the city’s financial crisis. Kilpatrick spent lavishly at the helm of a conspiracy that damaged Detroit’s reputation and cost taxpayers millions of dollars, U.S. District Court Judge Nancy Edmunds said, adding that the sentence was intended to send a message that corruption would not be tolerated.
New York – Cuomo’s Office Is Said to Rein in Ethics Board He Created
New York Times – Jesse McKinley and Thomas Kaplan | Published: 10/8/2013
According to people familiar with the work of the Commission to Investigate Public Corruption, its effort is burdened by resistance from the New York Legislature, which has refused requests for information about lawmakers’ outside income, and by unexpected involvement by the governor’s office, which has leaned on the commission to limit the scope of its probes.
North Carolina – Plain-Clothes Officer Attended Moral Monday Planning Meetings
WRAL – Michael Biesecker (Associated Press) | Published: 10/8/2013
About 940 people were arrested at weekly “Moral Monday” rallies opposing Republican-backed policies at the North Carolina Legislature that protesters said damaged public education, voting rights, and working people. The Raleigh Police Department conducted undercover surveillance at meetings of the North Carolina chapter of the NACCP held to organize the mass protests.
South Carolina – State House for Sale: SC ethics law a muddled mess
The State – Adam Beam | Published: 10/5/2013
While South Carolina has strict rules on who can donate to political campaigns, and how much they can give, state law has little to say about how legislators can spend that money. And what it does say is in dispute. Critics say South Carolina needs to follow the lead of 26 other states and have one independent ethics commission set the rules for all candidates. But most lawmakers say that would violate the state constitution.
Texas – Red River Rivalry Fundraising a Growing Trend
Texas Tribune – David Maly | Published: 10/9/2013
The annual football game between the University of Texas and Oklahoma University is increasingly becoming a fundraising hotspot for lawmakers in both parties. Deborah Ingersoll, a lobbyist who has worked in Texas politics for more than 20 years, organizes an annual guide of legislative fundraising surrounding the game and said this is the biggest year she has seen.
Virginia – Reforming Va. Laws a Priority for Politicians
Richmond Times Dispatch – Olympia Meola and Jim Nolan | Published: 10/6/2013
Recognizing the public reaction to the scandal involving Gov. Robert McDonnell, both major party candidates to succeed him have proposed reforms to Virginia’s gift and disclosure laws. Majority Leader M. Kirkland Cox is leading a working group of House Republicans studying various reforms ahead of the legislative session. Cox said the changes could include more frequent reporting than the current annual filing, and synchronizing the reporting dates for elected officials and lobbyists.
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October 10, 2013 •
Arkansas Potential Special Session May Include Ethics
Lawmaker proposes campaign finance changes
Rep. Warwick Sabin has suggested nearly a dozen changes to the state’s ethics and campaign finance laws potentially to be considered during a special session the governor may call to address teacher insurance costs. Sabin proposed the bills in an email to House and Senate members on Wednesday, October 10.
The changes would empower the Ethics Commission to initiate investigations, lower the minimum reporting amount for campaign expenditures from $100 to $50, and require the secretary of state to develop a searchable website for campaign finance records. The bills could only be considered in a special session if Gov. Mike Beebe included them in a proclamation.
Photo of the Arkansas State Capitol courtesy of jglazer75 in Wikimedia Commons.
October 10, 2013 •
Thursday News Roundup
Here are some great articles for today’s government relations news summary:
Lobbying
“K Street embraces ‘go small’ approach” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.
“Lobbying on the Slow Track During Shutdown” by Elliott Jager in Newsmax.
“Business groups see loss of sway over House GOP” on CNBC.
“Yelp hires Issa aide as first lobbyist” by Brendan Sasso in The Hill.
Campaign Finance
“Obama says lifting caps on campaign contributions would shut regular Americans out of politics” by The Associated Press in The Republic.
“An upside-down campaign finance system” by Jennifer Rubin in The Washington Post.
“Sandra Day O’Connor bemoans Citizens United decision” by The Associated Press in the Portland Press Herald.
Hawaii: “Panel hears finance law challenge” by Derrick DePledge in the Honolulu Star Advertiser.
Michigan: “State extends probe into fundraising by Duggan, super PAC” by Darren A. Nichols in the Detroit News.
New Hampshire: “State senator wants more transparency for political groups” by Garry Rayno in the New Hampshire Union Leader.
New York: “N.Y. Comptroller Supporters Get Prison for Donor Fraud” by Patricia Hurtado in Bloomberg.
Ethics
Arkansas: “Arkansas lawmaker floats ethics bills for session” by Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) in The Republic.
Tech and Social Media
“Quién Manda: A Pinterest For Politician and Lobbyist Relations?” by Rebecca Chao in TechPresident.
“Government shutdown: Why are only some federal websites shut down?” by Andrew Restuccia in Politico.
“Government on Social Media: How Did Brimfield, Ohio (a Town of 10,000) Get 88,000 Facebook Likes?” by Heather Kerrigan in Governing.
Redistricting
“Could the government shutdown prompt congressional redistricting reform?” by Jason Noble in the Des Moines Register.
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