July 14, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “A Year after Rocky Merger, Patton Boggs Aims to Re-Establish K Street Dominance” by Catherine Ho for Washington Post Colorado: “Spend, Don’t Tell: Special interests influence lawmakers, but remain tight lipped” by Arthur Kane for Colorado Watchdog Campaign Finance […]

July 13, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Lobbying Oklahoma: “Oklahoma Lobbying Disclosures Lag Behind Other States” by Arthur Kane for Oklahoma Watchdog Campaign Finance “High-Dollar Fundraising Makes Comeback, Raising Concerns about Bribery” by Eliza Newlin Carney for Roll Call Ethics “Supreme Court Justices Bolstered by Free Travel, […]

July 10, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

News You Can Use Digest – July 10, 2015

National: Is This Cold, Rural State Home to the Nation’s Healthiest Democracy? Washington Post – Niraj Chokshi | Published: 7/7/2015 After taking 22 factors into account – including broad access to voting, equal representation in state government, and a limited concentration […]

National:

Is This Cold, Rural State Home to the Nation’s Healthiest Democracy?
Washington Post – Niraj Chokshi | Published: 7/7/2015

After taking 22 factors into account – including broad access to voting, equal representation in state government, and a limited concentration of influence over the political system – Maine’s democracy ranks healthiest in the nation, according to the Center for American Progress Action Fund. Alabama’s was weakest, though all states are far from perfect. “One of the messages throughout this report is that every state has room to improve,” said Lauren Harmon, the report’s author. The study noted that restricting influence over the political system is a particularly weak area. A dozen states have no limits on campaign contributions. Just 15 states offer public campaign financing, while 37 require some waiting period between leaving office and taking a lobbying job.

The Most Liberal and Conservative CEOs
Yahoo Finance – Rick Newman | Published: 7/8/2015

Many chief executive officers of major corporations donate money across the political spectrum for pragmatic business reasons rather than personal ideological ones. Crowdpac analyzed campaign contributions from CEOs of the 100 largest public U.S. companies to find out just how liberal or conservative these executives really are.

Washington Gridlock Drives Lobby Shops to Focus on State Policy Battles
Washington Post – Catherine Ho | Published: 7/7/2015

As getting anything done in Washington, D.C. has become increasingly difficult, K Street-based lobbying firms are trying their luck representing clients seeking changes on a state rather than federal level. The idea of pivoting to capture state-level work is not new. But some lobbyists say it is taking on increased importance now that policy fights over some of the biggest issues are moving more quickly at the local level.

Federal:

Court Upholds Ban on Contractor Political Contributions
New York Times; Associated Press – | Published: 7/7/2015

A federal court upheld a longstanding prohibition on contractors making political contributions, handing a rare win to proponents of stronger campaign finance restrictions. The ban applies to individuals, corporations, and firms that are negotiating or working under federal contracts. While doing do, they cannot give money to federal candidates, parties, or committees. Chief Judge Merrick Garland of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said recent corruption scandals involving members of Congress point to the continuing danger of “quid pro quo” corruption. He agreed with the FEC that the law protects the integrity of merit-based government contracting.

GOP Leaders Fear Damage to Party’s Image as Donald Trump Doubles Down
Washington Post – Karen Tumulty, Philip Rucker, and Robert Costa | Published: 7/8/2015

Republican National Committee Chairperson Reince Priebus, faced with growing pressure from inside the party to quiet Donald Trump, called the provocative presidential candidate recently and asked him to speak in more measured tones. Days of round-the-clock cable news coverage of Trump’s incendiary claims about criminals coming across the border from Mexico forced Priebus to show alarmed Republicans that he was taking action. But the call also highlighted the limits of what could be done to rein in Trump.

Here Are the Secret Ways Super PACs and Campaigns Can Work Together
Washington Post – Matea Gold | Published: 7/6/2015

For the first time, nearly every top presidential hopeful has a personalized super PAC that can raise unlimited sums and is run by close associates or former aides. The widespread cooperation, which many campaign finance experts say stretches the legal boundaries, indicates that candidates and their advisers have little fear they will face serious scrutiny from law enforcement, despite the Justice Department’s successful prosecution this year of a campaign operative for illegal coordination. One main reason is that under FEC rules, there is no wall dividing candidates and independent groups. In practice, it is more like a one-way mirror, with a telephone on each side for occasional calls.

I.R.S. Expected to Stand Aside as Nonprofits Increase Role in 2016 Race
New York Times – Eric Lichtblau | Published: 7/5/2015

Regulators at the IRS appear certain to delay trying to curb campaign finance abuses at nonprofits until after the 2016 election. Agency officials concede the rules for nonprofit groups are vague and difficult to enforce. Audits for excessive campaign work are extremely rare, even for groups spending huge chunks of their budgets to support candidates. The IRS remains wounded by the scandal that began two years ago over its scrutiny of nonprofits tied to the tea party and other political causes, both conservative and liberal. “It’s anything goes for the next couple of years …,” said Paul Streckfus, a former nonprofit specialist at the IRS.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Aide to California Senate Leader Accepted Pot Gifts from Marijuana Lobbyist
BuzzFeed News – Amanda Lewis | Published: 7/8/2015

Ethics experts said a California Democratic Party staffer did not violate disclosure laws by accepting edible marijuana and an e-cigarette filled with hash oil from a lobbyist for the marijuana industry. The aide, Josh Drayton, works for the party’s Senate Democrats on political campaigns. BuzzFeed News reported that after accepting the gifts, Drayton said Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon needed to learn more about marijuana. Lawmakers and employees of the Senate are subject to gift reporting and limits. Drayton, however, is exempt because he is not employed by the Senate but by the party, said Gary Winuk, a former enforcement chief at the Fair Political Practices Commission.

Hawaii – How Hawaii Lawmakers Spend Up to $13,000 a Year – Each
Honolulu Civil Beat – Nathan Eagle | Published: 7/8/2015

Many Hawaii lawmakers have been less than thrilled with state Ethics Commission Executive Director Les Kondo’s strict opinions on what gifts they are allowed to accept from lobbyists, or what events they can attend with complimentary tickets. Legislative allowances have been another sore point. But a review of nearly $4 million in state lawmakers’ expenses over the past four years shows they are changing their habits based on the commission’s advice even if they do not like it, including not billing taxpayers for their dry cleaning or charitable donations.

Missouri – More Questions than Answers in Intern Investigation at Mo. Capitol
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Alex Stuckey | Published: 7/6/2015

In March, two interns abruptly left Missouri Sen. Paul LeVota’s office. But since then, the University of Central Missouri launched a Title IX investigation and the Senate began its own investigation and hired an attorney to assist with a “workplace harassment complaint.” Meanwhile, it appears unlikely the university, or even the Senate, could inflict punishment if wrongdoing has taken place. History has shown that harassment in the Capitol is rarely reported and difficult to prove.

New Hampshire – New Hampshire Voters Bemoan Size of G.O.P. Field
New York Times – Patrick Healy and Maggie Haberman | Published: 7/4/2015

The likely field of 16 Republican candidates is stirring frustration in New Hampshire, particularly among voters who say they feel more overwhelmed, even ambivalent, than ever before about their long-cherished responsibilities in holding the nation’s first primary. Some voters said they were already dreading the weeks of political fliers stuffed in their mailboxes, of campaign volunteers at their doors during the day, and of television ads and automated phone calls all through the night. Others said they already had candidate fatigue.

Oklahoma – Ethics Commission to Crack Down on Late Campaign Filers
Tulsa World – Curtis Killman | Published: 7/3/2015

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission approved a series of new and increased fees designed to help the agency go after late filers. The new fees, coupled with a boost in state funding, should provide enough revenue to permit the agency to hire two new staff members dedicated to compliance, said commission Executive Director Lee Slater. The new staff will assist with the collection of late filing fees assessed to candidate committees, PACs, and other entities charged with disclosing campaign finance activities.

Oklahoma – House Freshmen, Senate Leadership Accept Thousands in Lobbyist Meals, Gifts
Oklahoma Watchdogs – Arthur Kane | Published: 7/8/2015

Lobbyists in Oklahoma lobbyists spent more than $300,000 this year on meals, gifts, and receptions for state lawmakers. Lobbyists spent the most on mass events for large groups of legislators. Those parties and caucus meals cost nearly $170,000. Rep. Casey Murdock received nearly $2,900 in meals and gifts, the most of any member of the Legislature. Murdock said being courted by lobbyists is not as glamorous as some may assume. “I’m looking forward to next year when I won’t be a freshman and won’t have to go to many dinners,” Murdock said. “It gets old. Often you’re not the least bit interested in what they’re selling and you’re going through the motions.”

South Carolina – South Carolina House Votes to Remove Confederate Flag from Statehouse Grounds
Washington Post – Elahe Izade and Abby Phillip | Published: 7/9/2015

The Confederate battle flag that has flown at the South Carolina Statehouse for more than 50 years will soon be gone after lawmakers capped a tension-filled session and voted to remove it from the Capitol grounds. The final vote in the House of Representatives was well above the two-thirds majority that was required to move the bill toward the desk of Gov. Nikki Haley, who called for the flag to come down after the massacre at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston. Photographs emerged of the now-indicted shooter, an avowed white supremacist, posing with the emblem. Advocates for the flag’s removal say it represents a racist legacy and a dark chapter in the nation’s history, while defenders insist it symbolizes Southern heritage and honors fallen soldiers.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

July 3, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – July 3, 2015

Federal: As Donald Trump Surges in Polls, Democrats Cheer Washington Post – Philip Rucker | Published: 7/1/2015 With the Republican Party on a mission to woo Latino voters, one of its presidential candidates has been enmeshed for two weeks in a […]

Federal:

As Donald Trump Surges in Polls, Democrats Cheer
Washington Post – Philip Rucker | Published: 7/1/2015

With the Republican Party on a mission to woo Latino voters, one of its presidential candidates has been enmeshed for two weeks in a feud over his inflammatory comments about Mexican immigrants. “They’re bringing drugs, they’re bringing crime, they’re rapists,” Donald Trump said in his campaign announcement speech. The comments, and many more since, have prompted an uproar among Latino groups and a series of nasty break-ups between Trump and various corporate partners. His outlandish rhetoric and skill at occupying the national spotlight is also proving to be dangerously toxic for the GOP brand, which remains in the rehabilitation stage after losing the 2012 presidential race.

Bernie Sanders Doesn’t Follow the Money
Politico – Tarini Parti and Jonathan Topaz | Published: 6/28/2015

Working almost exclusively from his website, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders has raised about $8 million so far for his presidential campaign with an average donation of around $40. But Sanders, who has been rising fast in recent early-state polls, is missing an opportunity to capitalize on his momentum with a progressive base that has been without a standard-bearer since U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren declined to run. “I frankly don’t get the restraint ….,” said Harvard University professor Lawrence Lessig, adding that some think Sanders is ruining his presidential chances by not having a super PAC. Sanders faces the daunting task of finding a way to stay competitive in the Democratic primaries against one of the most potent pair of fundraisers in party history, Bill and Hillary Clinton, who are expected to count their receipts on Hillary’s behalf in the billions of dollars.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Justices Rule 5-4 That Independent Panels Can Draw Election District Lines
Washington Post – Robert Barnes | Published: 6/29/2015

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld Arizona’s congressional map, declaring the use of an independent redistricting commission that drew House district lines in the 2012 cycle did not violate the Constitution. About a dozen states have experimented with redistricting commissions that have varying degrees of independence from the state Legislatures, which ordinarily draw election maps. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg rejected the Arizona Legislature’s contention that it alone has power over redistricting. She said the decision by voters to turn reapportionment over to an independent commission “was in full harmony with the Constitution’s conception of the people as the font of governmental power.”

California – Ex-State Sen. Leland Yee Pleads Guilty to Racketeering in Corruption Case
Los Angeles Times – Lee Romney | Published: 7/1/2015

Former California Sen. Leland Yee pleaded guilty to a racketeering charge in an organized crime and public corruption case. He could face a maximum of 20 years in prison when he is sentenced in October. The FBI arrested Yee and 19 others in 2014 during a series of raids targeting a Bay Area organized crime ring. Yee was accused of soliciting and accepting bribes in exchange for providing help from Sacramento. The FBI also alleged that Yee, who was running for secretary of state at the time, conspired to connect an undercover agent with an international arms dealer in exchange for campaign contributions.

Florida – How Marco Rubio Turned Political Star Power into a Soaring Personal Income
Washington Post – Tom Hamburger and Sean Sullivan | Published: 6/29/2015

During his nine years in Tallahassee, as U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio rose in prominence and ascended to the state House speakership, he became increasingly well-compensated as he walked a narrow line between his work as a lawmaker and an employee of outside firms with interests before the state government. An analysis shows about 80 percent of his total income during his House tenure came from Florida law firms that lobby state and local governments. Rubio’s annual income grew from about $72,000 when he was elected to the state House in 2000 to $414,000 in 2008, when his two-year speakership ended.

Maine – Combative Maine Governor Becomes a Party of One
New York Times – Katherine Seelye | Published: 6/28/2015

In the last few weeks, Maine Gov. Paul LePage’s belligerence has surprised even his critics, and prompted some to raise the specter of impeachment. In a standoff that began with differences over tax policy, LePage has alienated just about the entire Legislature, including his fellow Republicans and onetime allies.

New York – Ex-N.Y. State Senator Gets Seven Years in Prison for Bribery
Albany Times Union – Tom Hays (Associated Press) | Published: 7/1/2015

Former New York Sen. Malcolm Smith will spend seven years in prison for a scheme to bribe his way onto the ballot for the 2013 New York City mayoral election. Smith wanted to be mayor but sought to avoid a Democratic primary. He instead decided to obtain the backing of GOP leaders in three boroughs so he could run as a Republican. Prosecutors said he authorized bribes totaling about $200,000. The five other politicians who were arrested with Smith were convicted or pleaded guilty.

New York – IG: State vendor lavished OMIG director with gifts, booze
Albany Times Union – Brendan Lyons | Published: 6/25/2015

A new report accused Joseph Flora, the former director of the New York Office of Medical Inspector General (OMIG), of improperly accepting gifts – including meals, alcohol, and a $130,000-a-year job offer – from a company that has a multimillion-dollar contract with the state. Health Management Systems (HMS) has had multiple contracts with OMIG since 2006. Flora was forced to retire from his state job in 2014 after a probe of his ties to the company. Separately, as a client of a registered lobbyist throughout the entire time period, HMS was subject to certain prohibitions on giving gifts to public officials. The Joint Commission on Public Ethics announced it had reached a settlement under which HMS would pay a $75,000 penalty.

Ohio – Lobbyist a Constant in Columbus’ Politics
Columbus Dispatch – Mark Ferenchik and Lucas Sullivan | Published: 6/28/2015

Lobbyist John Raphael has been a presence in Columbus, Ohio for almost 40 years. He has been an aide to a state senator and a member of the Columbus City Council, helped run a restaurant that was frequented by politicians, and currently represents eight clients at City Hall. And now he is at the center of a political and legal firestorm. In a plea agreement, former Redflex Chief Executive Officer Karen Finley said she passed money through Raphael and the Ohio Democratic Party to elected officials in Columbus to obtain contracts for red-light cameras. Council President Andrew Ginther, running this year to succeed Mayor Michael Coleman, has been subpoenaed in the matter, as has Coleman.

Oregon – How Much Pot Can Lawmakers Receive as a Gift? Oregon Democrat Has Some Advice
Portland Oregonian – Denis Theriault | Published: 6/30/2015

The Oregon Government Ethics Commission’s handbook for elected officials spells out a lot of rules in its section on gifts, especially when the people giving the gift have a financial interest in that official’s work. But none of those rules cover marijuana, which is legal in Oregon but not nationally. Rep. Ann Liniger offered some advice in an email to colleagues, recommending they know the value of the quantity of marijuana they are offered so as not to violate the $50 limit on gifts. But Lininger also sought to clarify her advice when asked about it by reporters. “My recommendation is that elected officials not accept gifts of cannabis,” said Linder.

Oregon – Kate Brown Signs Final Ethics Reforms, Mentions ‘Chaos and Confusion’ of Kitzhaber’s Last Days
Portland Oregonian – Denis Theriault | Published: 7/1/2015

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signed the last of three ethics-related bills she requested after Gov. John Kitzhaber resigned amid an influence-peddling scandal. House Bill 2019 expands the Oregon Government Ethics Commission from seven members to nine, while speeding up its timelines for investigating complaints and giving legislative leaders a larger role in appointing its members. House Bill 2020 clarifies that the governor’s partner is a public officials who must join file conflict-of-interest forms. It also raises bans the governor and first partner, and all other statewide elected officials, from accepting speaking fees.

Pennsylvania – Lack of Funding for State Ethics Commission Invites Corruption, Experts Worry
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – Kari Andren | Published: 6/27/2015

The number of staff members at the Pennsylvania Ethics Commission now stands at 17, down 30 percent from the 24 who once worked there. The commission’s funding topped 2009 levels for the first time this year at just more than $2 million. But this year’s $222,000 increase went to the bare essentials: upgrading outdated computers and software and hiring one investigator, the first hire in six years. Executive Director Rob Caruso said with its funding and staffing levels, the commission cannot fully investigate all of the 400 to 500 sworn complaints filed each year. One expert said Pennsylvania’s lack of funding for its watchdog office invites corruption.

Texas – John Wiley Price Associates Enter Guilty Pleas, Agree to Testify
Dallas Morning News – Kevin Krause and Ed Timms | Published: 6/30/2015

Two people have pleaded guilty in a federal corruption probe of Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, who is accused of accepting nearly $1 million in bribes. Christian Lloyd Campbell was a consultant for Price. Campbell pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery. Price, who awaits trial on conspiracy and fraud-related counts, allegedly accepted bribes to leak confidential information to help Campbell’s clients win contracts. Gallery owner Karen Manning pleaded guilty to subscribing to a fraudulent income tax return. Prosecutors say Manning sold African art for Price in a scheme to hide his illicit profits.

Virginia – With McAuliffe in Office, Old Friends Find New Opportunities
Lexington Herald-Leader – Alan Suderman (Associated Press) | Published: 6/26/2015

After Gov. Terry McAuliffe took office in early 2014, some of his friends – who had never lobbied in Virginia before – started registering as lobbyists with several companies interested in contracting with the state. Among the companies are technology and health care businesses, including some Medicaid-related firms. McAuliffe has made expanding Medicaid a top priority for his administration. He has so far been blocked by the Republican-controlled General Assembly.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

July 2, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Amount Allowed to Spend on Louisiana Officials Increased by $2

On July 1, the maximum value for food, drink, or refreshment an individual may provide to an elected official or public employee in Louisiana for a single event increased from $58 to $60. This threshold value is adjusted each year […]

July 2, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Ask the Experts – On Registered Lobbyists Making Political Contributions

Q. I recently became a registered lobbyist in my company’s home state. I am also very active politically. Are there any restrictions on my political contributions now that I am a registered lobbyist? A. An individual’s status as a registered […]

Q. I recently became a registered lobbyist in my company’s home state. I am also very active politically. Are there any restrictions on my political contributions now that I am a registered lobbyist?

A. An individual’s status as a registered lobbyist can place additional restrictions and requirements on him or her related to his or her political contributions. Some jurisdictions place strict restrictions on a lobbyist’s ability to make contributions. South Carolina prohibits registered lobbyists from making contributions to a candidate or anyone acting on behalf of a candidate if the lobbyist engages in lobbying the public office or public body for which the candidate is seeking election. California has a similar prohibition, providing lobbyists may not contribute to a state candidate or officeholder, or their controlled committees, if registered to lobby the governmental agency for which the candidate seeks election or to which the officeholder belongs. Other jurisdictions limit the amount a registered lobbyist can contribute compared to a nonregistered individual. Registered legislative and executive agents in Massachusetts may contribute no more than $200 in the aggregate to any one candidate and such candidate’s committee during a calendar year.

A number of jurisdictions require reporting of lobbyist contributions. Pennsylvania has extensive registration and reporting requirements for lobbyists who make personal political contributions, requiring them to register with the state before making a personal contribution and to file reports on the same schedule as a PAC. Maryland’s reporting requirements are not as extensive, requiring certain political contributions to be disclosed on the lobbyist’s activity report.

When an individual becomes a registered lobbyist, he or she must review the applicable rules on his or her political contributions. If unsure as to the requirements, please be sure to review our website at www.stateandfed.com for up-to-date information.

You can directly submit questions for this feature, and we will select those most appropriate and answer them here. Send your questions to: experts@stateandfed.com.

(We are always available to answer questions from clients that are specific to your needs, and we encourage you to continue to call or e-mail us with questions about your particular company or organization. As always, we will confidentially and directly provide answers or information you need.) Our replies to your questions are not legal advice. Instead, these replies represent our analysis of laws, rules, and regulations.

June 30, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Lobbying Typos and Misdemeanors” by James Panichi for Politico “How Marco Rubio Turned Political Star Power into a Soaring Personal Income” by Tom Hamburger and Sean Sullivan for Washington Post Ohio: “Lobbyist a Constant in Columbus’ Politics” by Mark […]

June 29, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Quebec National Assembly Proposes Lobbying Transparency Act

The National Assembly in Quebec has introduced new legislation proposing to strengthen and expand lobbying activities. Bill 56, titled the Lobbying Transparency Act, expands the scope of the definition of lobbyists to include shareholders lobbying for an entity as well […]

June 29, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Monday News Roundup

Lobbying New York: “IG: State vendor lavished OMIG director with gifts, booze” by Brendan Lyons for Albany Times Union Wisconsin: “Madison City Council Member Will Seek to Ban Registered Lobbyists from Serving on City Committees” by Dean Mosiman for Wisconsin […]

June 26, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

Madison City Council to Consider Prohibiting Lobbyists from Serving on City Committees

Madison Ald. David Ahrens will soon propose an ordinance to ban registered lobbyists from serving on city committees. The proposal is expected to be introduced on July 7 as a means of eliminating both the appearance and reality of conflicts […]

June 26, 2015 • Written by Jonathan Spontarelli

News You Can Use Digest – June 26, 2015

National: Calls to Drop Confederate Emblems Spread Nationwide New York Times – Campbell Robertson, Monica Davey, and Julie Bosman | Published: 6/23/2015 After decades of bitter debate over whether the Confederate battle flag is a proud symbol of regional heritage or […]

National:

Calls to Drop Confederate Emblems Spread Nationwide
New York Times – Campbell Robertson, Monica Davey, and Julie Bosman | Published: 6/23/2015

After decades of bitter debate over whether the Confederate battle flag is a proud symbol of regional heritage or a shameful emblem of the nation’s most grievous sins, the argument may finally be moving toward an end. South Carolina is leading the way for other states as it considers removing the flag from its Capitol grounds after nine parishioners were shot to death in a black church in Charleston. Photographs that have since surfaced of the accused killer, Dylann Roof, show him posing with the Confederate flag. The banner was long considered politically sacrosanct in the South, at least among conservative whites. It now appears that a rush is on to banish it, along with other images that evoke the Confederacy and sow racial divisiveness.

Can Unlimited Contributions to Political Parties Really Reduce Polarization?
Washington Post – Lee Drutman | Published: 6/23/2015

Ideological polarization has many causes, most of which cannot be altered. But over the past few years, a growing crowd of scholars has explored the possibility that stronger parties could reduce the division. Because different states have different rules on how much money parties can raise, the proposition that making it easier for parties to raise more money reduces polarization can be empirically tested.

Federal:

Lobbyists: Easy target, easy touch
Politico – Tarini Parti | Published: 6/21/2015

In his speech announcing his intention to run for president, Jeb Bush singled out the lobbying industry for criticism, saying, “We will also challenge the culture that has made lobbying the premier growth industry in the nation’s capital – the rest of the country struggles under big government, while comfortable, complacent interest groups in Washington have been thriving on it.” Bush is not alone in calling out the industry. As presidential candidates look to portray themselves as Washington outsiders, lobbyists have emerged as a common, easy target. But lobbying firms still rank high on the list of fundraising stops for presidential hopefuls.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arkansas – Ethics Panel Issues Opinion on Lobbyist Gifts
Arkansas News – John Lyon | Published: 6/19/2015

The Arkansas Ethics Commission issued an advisory opinion stating that state agency directors, agency deputy directors, agency employees, and most local elected officials and their staffs and the staff members of constitutional officers are not barred from accepting gifts from lobbyists under Amendment 94. Gifts that fall outside of the scope of the amendment would still be subject to analysis, the commission said in the opinion, noting the law excludes gifts with a value of $100 or less.

California – Lawmakers’ Calendars List Meetings with Undercover Agents
San Diego Union Tribune – Judy Lin (Associated Press) | Published: 6/23/2015

Providing a rare glimpse at politicians’ lives outside the Capitol, the California Senate released about 300 pages from the calendars of former Sens. Ron Calderon and Leland Yee, who have been indicted on separate corruption charges. The appointment books appear to corroborate allegations that they met with undercover FBI agents at steakhouses and a lobbyist’s office. A judge found in the first ruling of its kind in California that the public’s interest outweighed the Senate’s interest in keeping the records private after news organizations sued to get the lawmakers’ records.

Florida – How Some of Florida’s Top Lobbyists Produce Blockbuster Budget Results
SaintPetersBlog – Peter Schorsch | Published: 6/16/2015

Speculation is part of the budget-making process in Florida as lobbyists and advocates seek funding for projects and programs. Then desperation hangs in the air during the final week of a 60-day session while they wait to see whether a year’s worth of work will result in a line item in the $77 billion state budget. “It’s a different type of animal than any other part of the legislative session, for sure,” said lobbyist Travis Blanton. “You can’t ever relax or take time off with the budget. You’ve got to play through the whole process [because] you don’t know until the moment when they hit the print button that you are in the budget or not.”

Idaho – Lobbying at the Capitol: Should Idaho state employees have to register under the law?
Idaho Statesman – Bill Dentzer | Published: 6/19/2015

State employees who lobby the Idaho Legislature or government officials as part of their jobs – for example, the lobbyists for the state’s universities – always used to register and disclose their spending. But after an attorney general’s opinion found they did not need to, the university lobbyists and other state workers whose jobs entail lobbying stopped filing. Now, Idaho Secretary of State Lawerence Denney wants to propose legislation to make them register and disclose again. He also obtained a new opinion stating that gifts to lawmakers or executive branch officials must be disclosed, even if they come from state employees in the course of doing their jobs.

Kentucky – Florida Group Challenges Kentucky Law That Bans Corporations from Making Political Contributions
Lexington Herald-Leader – Jack Brammer | Published: 6/18/2015

Kentucky’s ban on corporate contributions to political parties and state and local candidates was challenged in a federal lawsuit filed by a group promoting a right-to-work agenda opposed by organized labor. The Florida-based group, Protect My Check Inc., claims the prohibition violates equal protection and free-speech rights. It said the ban is discriminatory because unions and limited liability companies are allowed to donate to candidates and political parties in Kentucky.

Missouri – Police Report Reveals Past Diehl Affair with Nixon Staffer
St. Louis Post-Dispatch – Virginia Young | Published: 6/19/2015

Former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl, who resigned after exchanging sexually suggestive text messages with a Capitol intern, also had affair with a former aide to Gov. Jay Nixon. While announcing his resignation, Diehl said he had not had any other inappropriate relationships with other women. But a Jefferson City police report notes Diehl and former Nixon aide Brittany Burke acknowledged to police they had an affair last year. At the time, Burke was lobbying the Legislature for the administration.

New Mexico – Transparency-Pushing Nonprofit Discloses Donors
NMPolitics – Heath Haussamen | Published: 6/19/2015

The IRS does not require most nonprofits to disclose their donors publicly even if they engage in lobbying or issue advocacy. But Common Cause’s national policy requires that it release information about donors of $250 or more when requested, which is how NMPolitics.net obtained the list of New Mexico donors. Common Cause New Mexico Executive Director Viki Harrison said her organization believes “it is very important to have full transparency in any efforts to influence policy.” She said she hopes additional nonprofit groups will voluntarily disclose their funding, “just like we hope elected officials, parties, lobbyists, and PACs go above and beyond what is simply the law when they disclose information.”

Ohio – Former Traffic Camera Exec Admits to Bribing Officials in Columbus, Cincinnati
Cleveland Plain Dealer – Jeremy Pelzer (Northeast Ohio Media Group) | Published: 6/19/2015

Karen Finley, a former chief executive officer of Redflex Traffic Systems, pleaded guilty to bribery in an eight-year scheme involving elected city officials from both Cincinnati and Columbus to win or keep traffic-camera contracts. Court records show campaign contributions were funneled to the officials through a political consultant, and the money intended for Columbus officials was given to the Franklin County Democratic Party and Ohio Democratic Party, according to the plea agreement. Finley left the company in 2013 following a similar scandal in Chicago.

Oregon – Cannabis Industry Flexes Its New Political Muscle
Oregon Public Broadcasting – Conrad Wilson | Published: 6/21/2015

The 300 attendees at a recent fundraiser in Portland for U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer represented a newly energized group – members of the cannabis industry, now in an era where their product is legal for recreational use in Oregon. The Oregon Cannabis PAC hosted the event, which raised $100,000. Its leaders say that is the largest sum ever contributed by the industry to a politician during a single event. As the marijuana industry grows around the county, its political clout is growing, too. For members of Congress who are constantly fundraising, the industry offers new, high-yield donors. But it also raises questions about where the money came from and what those donors expect in return.

Oregon – Kate Brown Gets Her Wish: Last of her ethics reforms win approval
Portland Oregonian – Denis Theriault | Published: 6/18/2015

Oregon lawmakers approved the last of Gov. Kate Brown’s ethics reform bills. House Bill 2019 speeds up investigations by the state Government Ethics Commission and sharply limits the governor’s role in appointing its members. House Bill 2020 affirms that the governor’s partner is subject to state ethics rules and bans statewide officers from accepting speaking fees. Both join Senate Bill 9, which Brown has signed. It orders an audit of state agencies’ handling of public records, with its findings expected to serve as the basis of reforms as soon as next year.

Texas – Abbott Vetoes Spousal Loophole
Texas Tribune – Jay Root | Published: 6/20/2015

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed two ethics reform bills that would have given lawmakers cover to hide their spouses’ financial dealings. The vetoes capped Abbott’s inability in his first year to strengthen ethics laws as promised. He even named it one of five legislative priorities. Lawmakers fought for months over allowing more transparency about their personal wealth and curbing conflicts-of-interest. Although the vetoed bills would have tightened some disclosure rules, even ethics watchdogs considered what became known as the “spousal loophole” amendment far too toxic.

Washington – Vaping Giveaways Raise Eyebrows at State Capitol
The Olympian – Melissa Santos (Tacoma News Tribune) | Published: 6/24/2015

In a contest promoted by a group that supports stores that sell electronic cigarettes, customers who emailed Washington legislators to oppose new taxes on vapor products were entered into a drawing for prizes. Other shops told customers that if they emailed or called their lawmakers from inside a participating store, they would get a discount on their purchases. It is an unusual type of lobbying that has frustrated some state lawmakers who are looking to regulate the vaping industry. A spokesperson for state Public Disclosure Commission said providing discounts or giveaways in exchange for people contacting their lawmakers is not against the law, it is just something the agency has not seen before.

Jim Sedor State and Federal Communications produces a weekly summary of national news, offering more than 60 articles per week focused on ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance.

June 25, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Thursday News Roundup

Lobbying Hawaii: “Former Lobbyist Who Wined and Dined Council Members Now Vice Chair of Key Panel” by Keoki Kerr for Hawaii News Now Nebraska: “Common Cause Complaint against Former Senator Dismissed” by Joanne Young for Lincoln Journal Star Campaign Finance […]

June 24, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Wednesday Government Relations News

Lobbying Rhode Island: “Edward Fitzpatrick: A final test for R.I. General Assembly on lobbying law” by Edward Fitzpatrick for Providence Journal Campaign Finance “Can Unlimited Contributions to Political Parties Really Reduce Polarization?” by Lee Drutman for Washington Post “Will Doug […]

June 23, 2015 • Written by Jim Sedor

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Lobbying “Lobbyists: Easy target, easy touch” by Tarini Parti for Politico Florida: “How Some of Florida’s Top Lobbyists Produce Blockbuster Budget Results” by Peter Schorsch for SaintPetersBlog Idaho: “Lobbying at the Capitol: Should Idaho state employees have to register under […]

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Monday News Roundup

News You Can Use Digest – July 10, 2015

News You Can Use Digest – July 3, 2015

Amount Allowed to Spend on Louisiana Officials Increased by $2

Ask the Experts – On Registered Lobbyists Making Political Contributions

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Quebec National Assembly Proposes Lobbying Transparency Act

Monday News Roundup

Madison City Council to Consider Prohibiting Lobbyists from Serving on City Committees

News You Can Use Digest – June 26, 2015

Thursday News Roundup

Wednesday Government Relations News

Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update

Popular Categories

Sort by Month

Sort By State

Popular Categories

Sort by Month

Sort By State

Celebrating more than 30 years in business!