June 22, 2015 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying Arkansas: “Ethics Panel Issues Opinion on Lobbyist Gifts” by John Lyon for Arkansas News Campaign Finance “White Supremacist Leader Was a Political Donor” by Nick Gass for Politico Kansas: “No Charges Filed after Federal Probe into Election Loans to […]
Lobbying
Arkansas: “Ethics Panel Issues Opinion on Lobbyist Gifts” by John Lyon for Arkansas News
Campaign Finance
“White Supremacist Leader Was a Political Donor” by Nick Gass for Politico
Kansas: “No Charges Filed after Federal Probe into Election Loans to Brownback’s Campaign” by Peter Hancock for Lawrence Journal World
Massachusetts: “Invitation to Political Fundraiser Might Skirt Ethics Laws” by Frank Phillips for Boston Globe
North Carolina: “NC Sen. Hartsell’s Campaign Finance Case Referred to Prosecutors” by Lynn Bonner for Raleigh News & Observer
Ethics
New York: “In Corruption Cases, Speculation Undermines Justice” by Richard Lipsky for Albany Times Union
Oregon: “Oregon Impeachment Resolution Expected to Die in Senate” by Dennis Theriault for Portland Oregonian
Tennessee: “State Rep. Joe Armstrong Indicted” by Richard Locker for Memphis Commercial Appeal
Texas: “Abbott Vetoes Spousal Loophole” by Jay Root for Texas Tribune
Washington: “Rachel Dolezal Told to Quit 2nd Post” by Kirk Johnson for New York Times
June 19, 2015 •
News You Can Use Digest – June 19, 2015
Federal: Jeb Bush Announces Presidential Bid: ‘We will take command of our future once again’ Washington Post – Ed O’Keefe | Published: 6/15/2015 Jeb Bush announced he is running for president, promising to remove Washington as an obstacle to effective government […]
Federal:
Jeb Bush Announces Presidential Bid: ‘We will take command of our future once again’
Washington Post – Ed O’Keefe | Published: 6/15/2015
Jeb Bush announced he is running for president, promising to remove Washington as an obstacle to effective government and economic prosperity. Bush is declaring his White House ambitions nearly 27 years after his father was elected president, molding a political dynasty that would propel one son into a governor’s office and another into the White House. But Bush will enter a presidential contest that is unlike any faced by his father, who won the office in 1988, or his brother, who claimed it in 2000.
Neil Young Message to Donald Trump: Stop rockin’
Christian Science Monitor – Jessica Mendoza | Published: 6/17/2015
Donald Trump announced his presidential candidacy to the sound of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” but Trump did not have permission to use the song, said Elliot Roberts, Young’s manager. The incident makes the real estate developer the latest candidate to butt heads with a musician about song copyright in a campaign. A spokesperson said Trump, a fan of Young’s music despite their differing views, used the song legally through a licensing deal with the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. But even when a campaign does get copyright permission, artists can still object to the use of their music under other laws that protect their brand or image, or ban implications of endorsement.
Republican Operative Sentenced to 2 Years in Landmark Election Case
Washington Post – Matt Zapotosky and Matea Gold | Published: 6/12/2015
A Republican political operative was sentenced to two years in prison after becoming the first person convicted of illegally coordinating campaign donations between a super PAC and a congressional campaign. Tyler Harber said he knew what he was doing was wrong, but he did it anyway because of his desire to win elections and his belief that the law banning such coordination is routinely ignored. “This shows [the U.S. Justice Department is] willing to venture into areas of criminal enforcement in the 2016 election, beyond what they had done previously,” said Kenneth Gross, a former associate general counsel at the FEC.
Russ Feingold’s PAC Funded Fees, Salaries for Former Staffers, Himself
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel – Daniel Bice | Published: 6/15/2015
Former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold, co-author of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, founded a PAC that has given only five percent of its funds to candidates and political parties. Instead, nearly half of the $7.1 million that Progressives United PAC has spent since 2011 has gone to raising more money for itself. The data also show the group has paid another sizable portion of money on salaries or consulting fees for Feingold, his top aide, and former staffers. Feingold is taking on U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson in 2016 to try to win back his old seat.
From the States and Municipalities:
Illinois – $2M Rauner Donor’s Company Does Business with State, Has Exceeded $50K Limit Past 4 Years
State Journal-Register – Bernard Schoenburg | Published: 6/13/2015
Richard Uihlein, chief executive officer of Uline, a packaging supply company, gave $2 million to Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner’s campaign fund in December. Uihlein’s wife, Elizabeth, is president of the firm, and she donated $25,000 to Rauner in October. The company has done more than $50,000 in business with the state in each of the last four years, which means the contributions may have violated state campaign finance law.
Kentucky – John Schaaf to Head Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission
Connecticut Post; Associated Press – | Published: 6/16/2015
The Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission named current general counsel John Schaaf as its new executive director effective August 1. Schaaf has worked as the commission’s lawyer since 2004, following 16 years as general counsel of the Legislative Research Commission. He helped craft legislation in 1992 that paved the way for ethics reform in the state.
Massachusetts – Lobbyists Were Quick to Donate to Both Baker, Coakley
WCVB; Associated Press – | Published: 6/13/2015
Lobbyists hedged their bets during the 2014 Massachusetts gubernatorial race, often giving to both Charlie Baker and Martha Coakley. The strategy of contributing to multiple candidates in the same race is not new, according to Pam Wilmot, executive director of Massachusetts Common Cause. “Lobbyists give because they want access – that means access to whoever is elected and the best way to ensure that is to give to both candidates,” Wilmot said.
New York – Education Reforms Spur N.Y. Lobbying ‘Arms Race’
USA Today – Jon Campbell (Gannett Newspapers) | Published: 6/14/2015
Various education interests have spent at least $124 million trying to influence New York lawmakers, officials, and the general public at the state and local level since the start of 2006, including a record of at least $16 million last year. That is in addition to $45.3 million in lobbying expenses reported by the New York State United Teachers union and its New York City affiliate over the past nine years. They are tallied as labor organizations, not education groups, by the state’s lobbying regulator. Add in political spending and the numbers are starker: Education interests and teachers unions have spent $285.5 million on lobbying, campaign contributions, and independent political expenditures over the past decade.
Pennsylvania – Fifth Former LCB Official Accused of Violating State Ethics Laws
Pittsbugh Tribune-Review – Kari Andren | Published: 6/12/2015
A former state Liquor Control Board (LCB) executive was fined for illegally accepting gifts. The Pennsylvania Ethics Commission ordered Timothy Fringer to pay $7,200. The commission said Fringer, the board’s former chief of product management and pricing, accepted gifts from vendors such as meals, golf outings, and tickets to sporting events. Fringer told investigators he was instructed to accept the gifts by Jim Short, the LCB’s former marketing director, and as long as no one complained, “it’s like it never happened.” Short and three other officials in 2014 were fined for a variety of violations stemming from gifts they received from vendors.
Pennsylvania – Some Critical That Officials Caught in Sting Keep State Pensions
Philadelphia Inquirer – Craig McCoy and Angela Couloumbis | Published: 6/13/2015
By pleading guilty to violating the state’s conflict-of-interest law, four defendants in a Pennsylvania corruption case are now disgraced. The two legislators in office at the time of their plea had to resign immediately, as required by the state constitution. But former Philadelphia Traffic Court President Judge Thomasine Tynes and the former lawmakers – Michelle Brownlee, Harold James, and Ronald Waters – did not get hit with prison time or have to forfeit their annual government pensions, estimated at $54,000 to $85,000. To critics, the deals seem unduly lenient, especially the failure to go after their taxpayer-financed retirement checks.
Utah – Ex-A.G. Mark Shurtleff Defers Evidence Hearing; Prosecutors Amend Charges
Deseret News – Dennis Romboy | Published: 6/15/2015
Prosecutors amended charges against former Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, dropping three bribery counts his lawyer insists were the foundation of allegations that the state’s former top lawyer had operated a “pay-to-play” scheme while in office. Prosecutors say Shurtleff accepted money and gifts like beach vacations and the use of luxury homes and boats while he was attorney general. Seven charges remain against Shurtleff, including accepting improper gifts, obstruction of justice, and a count alleging he tried to bribe a victim to derail an investigation. It appears that prosecutors are tailoring the charges to the evidence, not necessarily scaling back the case, said former prosecutor Kent Morgan. The charge of accepting improper gifts is generally simpler to prove at trial than bribery.
Washington – Lawmakers’ Watchdog Asks for Money
Tacoma News Tribune – Jerry Cornfield | Published: 6/15/2015
The interim executive director of the Washington Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has been asking lawmakers for more money in the next state budget to help deal with a backlog of enforcement cases. Under the Senate budget proposal, the job of general counsel would be eliminated and a portion of the savings used to hire a contract lawyer. Also, the Senate approach would axe one position handling requests from the public and another one dealing with the agency’s website and campaign finance database. “This work is important; it is part of that entire ecosystem of good government,” said Fred Kiga, who took over at PDC on June 1.
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 18, 2015 •
Vermont Governor Approves Changes to Lobbyist Disclosure Requirements
Gov. Peter Shumlin has signed Senate Bill 93, changing lobbyist reporting requirements. Reports must now be filed for each month the legislature is in session with an additional report in September. The new law also requires identification of lobbyists contributing […]
Gov. Peter Shumlin has signed Senate Bill 93, changing lobbyist reporting requirements. Reports must now be filed for each month the legislature is in session with an additional report in September.
The new law also requires identification of lobbyists contributing to advertisements meant to influence legislation and a report must be filed within 48 hours if such advertisement cost $1,000 or more. Furthermore, a legislator’s candidate committee and a legislative leadership committee may no longer solicit or accept a contribution while the legislature is in session.
These provision are effective July 1, 2015.
June 18, 2015 •
Thursday News Roundup
Lobbying “Lobbying World” in The Hill “Lobbyist bundlers pledge allegiance to Team Bush” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill “Coalitions of the willing are latest lobbying trend” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post Minnesota: “Reports offer peek at […]
Lobbying
“Lobbying World” in The Hill
“Lobbyist bundlers pledge allegiance to Team Bush” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill
“Coalitions of the willing are latest lobbying trend” by Catherine Ho in The Washington Post
Minnesota: “Reports offer peek at state Capitol lobbying in 2015 session” by Brian Bakst and Kyle Potter (Associated Press) in The Washington Times
Campaign Finance
“Presidential candidates defy campaign finance limits through well-funded outside groups” by Julie Bykowicz (Associated Press) in Newser
Kentucky: “Florida group challenging Kentucky law that bans corporations from making political contributions” by Jack Brammer in the Lexington Herald-Leader
New Mexico: “New Mexico AG wants more ‘transparency’ in campaign finance” by The Associated Press in The Washington Times
Ethics
“Charlie Dent got clearance for trip with donor to Nantucket” by Jake Sherman, Anna Palmer, and John Bresnahan in Politico
Florida: “Donald Trump cleared in Miami-Dade ethics probe” by Douglas Hanks in the Miami Herald
North Carolina: “Elections board points prosecutors to NC senator’s potential misspending of campaign money” by Emery P. Dalesio (Associated Press) in The Republic
June 17, 2015 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “Where the Billions Spent on Lobbying Come From, in Maps” by Philip Bump for Washington Post Texas: “Ethics Commission Seeks to Force Empower Texans to Turn over Records” by Tim Eaton for Austin American-Statesman Campaign Finance “State and Local […]
Lobbying
“Where the Billions Spent on Lobbying Come From, in Maps” by Philip Bump for Washington Post
Texas: “Ethics Commission Seeks to Force Empower Texans to Turn over Records” by Tim Eaton for Austin American-Statesman
Campaign Finance
“State and Local Bills Try to Rein in Political Spending” by Tarini Parti for Politico
“Jeb Bush’s Smooth Money Machine” by Anna Palmer and Tarini Parti for Politico
California: “Tow Company Campaign Trickery Alleged” by Jeff McDonald for San Diego Union-Tribune
Ethics
Kentucky: “John Schaaf to Head Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission” by The Associated Press for Connecticut Post
Oklahoma: “State Ethics Commission to Investigate Sen. Rick Brinkley” by Nolan Clay for The Oklahoman
Oregon: “Kate Brown Signs First of Her Ethics Bills, Calling for Public Records Audit” by Denis Theriault for Portland Oregonian
Pennsylvania: “Some Critical That Officials Caught in Sting Keep State Pensions” by Craig McCoy and Angela Couloumbis for Philadelphia Inquirer
Utah: “Ex-A.G. Mark Shurtleff Defers Evidence Hearing; Prosecutors Amend Charges” by Dennis Romboy for Deseret News
Elections
“Donald Trump Runs for President (This Time for Real, He Says)” by Alexander Burns for New York Times
June 16, 2015 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Lobbying “Lobbyists Were Quick to Donate to Both Baker, Coakley” by The Associated Press for WCVB “Lobbyists Spend $5.8 Million at 2015 Montana Legislature” by Alison Noon (Associated Press) for Montana Standard “Education Reforms Spur N.Y. Lobbying ‘Arms Race’” by Jon […]
Lobbying
“Lobbyists Were Quick to Donate to Both Baker, Coakley” by The Associated Press for WCVB
“Lobbyists Spend $5.8 Million at 2015 Montana Legislature” by Alison Noon (Associated Press) for Montana Standard
“Education Reforms Spur N.Y. Lobbying ‘Arms Race’” by Jon Campbell (Gannett Newspapers) for USA Today
Campaign Finance
“Republican Operative Sentenced to 2 Years in Landmark Election Case” by Matt Zapotosky and Matea Gold for Washington Post
“This Web Site Allows Political Donors to Give Money Based on How Lawmakers Vote. Just Don’t Call It Bribery.” by Steven Overly for Washington Post
“$2M Rauner Donor’s Company Does Business with State, Has Exceeded $50K Limit Past 4 Years” by Bernard Schoenburg for State Journal-Register
“Christie’s PAC Picks Up His NBA Finals Ticket” by Maddie Hanna for Philadelphia Inquirer
Ethics
“Oklahoma Ethics Commission Considers Changes to Financial Disclosure Rule” by Barbara Hoberock for Tulsa World
“Fifth Former LCB Official Accused of Violating State Ethics Laws” by Kari Andren for Pittsbugh Tribune-Review
“Ethics Commissioners: Lawmakers went backward in 2015” by Jim Malewitz for Texas Tribune
“Lawmakers’ Watchdog Asks for Money” by Jerry Cornfield for Tacoma News Tribune
Elections
“Jeb Bush Announces Presidential Bid: ‘We will take command of our future once again’” by Ed O’Keefe for Washington Post
June 15, 2015 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying “Robert Reich: Lobbyists are snuffing our democracy, one legal bribe at a time” by Robert Reich for Salon Campaign Finance “Corporations Open Up About Political Spending” by Eduardo Porter for New York Times “Legislation Puts More Enforcement in Campaign […]
Lobbying
“Robert Reich: Lobbyists are snuffing our democracy, one legal bribe at a time” by Robert Reich for Salon
Campaign Finance
“Corporations Open Up About Political Spending” by Eduardo Porter for New York Times
“Legislation Puts More Enforcement in Campaign Finance Reporting Laws” by Mary Snell for Decatur Daily
California: “Ethics Troubles Could Mount for Ex-Candidate Who Missed Fine Payment” by David Zahniser for Los Angeles Times
Hawaii: “Contractor Campaign Contributions Raise Concerns of Corruption” by Nick Grube for Honolulu Civil Beat
Ethics
California: “FPPC Names New Enforcement Chief, General Counsel” by Christopher Cadelago for Sacramento Bee
Massachusetts: “Gambling Panel Chairman Facing Ethics Investigation” by Andrea Estes for Boston Globe
New York: “Court Orders Disgraced Lopez to Pay $330,000 Fine” by Casey Seiler for Albany Times Union
Pennsylvania: “Elections Chief Sues to Stop Ethics Probe” by Chris Brennan for Philadelphia Inquirer
Rhode Island: “Ex-RI House Speaker Fox Gets 3 Years in Prison” by Katie Mulvaney for Providence Journal
Elections
“In 2008, Clinton Couldn’t Buy Iowans’ Love. So She Bought Them Snow Shovels” by David Fahrenthold for Washington Post
June 11, 2015 •
Thursday News Roundup
Lobbying Rhode Island: “RI’s Biggest Spending Special Interest Groups at the Statehouse” by Stephen Beale for GoLocalProv.com Campaign Finance “The IRS Chief’s Mistake about ‘Dark Money’” by Miriam Galston for Washington Post Ethics Florida: “Ethics Panel: Carroll misreported income” by […]
Lobbying
Rhode Island: “RI’s Biggest Spending Special Interest Groups at the Statehouse” by Stephen Beale for GoLocalProv.com
Campaign Finance
“The IRS Chief’s Mistake about ‘Dark Money’” by Miriam Galston for Washington Post
Ethics
Florida: “Ethics Panel: Carroll misreported income” by Brandon Larrabee (News Service of Florida) for Tallahassee Democrat
Florida: “Ex-Congressman’s Top Aide to plead Guilty to Breaking Election Law” by Jay Weaver for Miami Herald
Hawaii: “Ethics Director Survives Political Challenge” by Ian Lind for Honolulu Civil Beat
Elections
“Eyeing 2016, G.O.P Embraces Digital Strategies, but Doubts Persist” by Ashley Parker for New York Times
“How Jeb Bush’s Campaign Ran off Course before It Even Began” by Ed O’Keefe and Robert Costa for Washington Post
Legislative Issues
“Sen. Johnny Isakson Discloses He Has Parkinson’s Disease” by Mike DeBonis for Washington Post
Maine: “Closed Door: Legislators conducting public business in private despite state’s open meeting law” by John Christie (Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting) for Pine Tree Watchdog
June 10, 2015 •
Wednesday Government Relations News
Lobbying “Did Obama’s Pick to Head Navy Break Lobbying Law?” by Austin Wright and Philip Ewing for Politico Louisiana: “What Good Do Lobbyist Reporting Laws Do without Enforcement” by the Editorial Board for New Orleans Times-Picayune Pennsylvania: “Bill to Ban […]
Lobbying
“Did Obama’s Pick to Head Navy Break Lobbying Law?” by Austin Wright and Philip Ewing for Politico
Louisiana: “What Good Do Lobbyist Reporting Laws Do without Enforcement” by the Editorial Board for New Orleans Times-Picayune
Pennsylvania: “Bill to Ban Contingent-Fee Lobbying Advances” by Staff for Chadds Ford Live
Campaign Finance
“How Democratic or Republican Is Your Job? This Tool Tells You.” by Philip Bump for Washington Post
“Shaun McCutcheon Blew Up Campaign-Finance Law and Became a GOP Hero. Then He Set His Sights on Paris Hilton.” by Luke Mullins for Washingtonian Magazine
Alaska: “Alaska Campaign Finance Watchdog Drops Charlo Greene Investigation” by Suzanna Caldwell for Alaska Dispatch News
California: “Ethics Panel Orders S.F. Supervisor to Pay $181,000 Fine” by John Wildermuth for San Francisco Chronicle
California: “Azano Says Finance Law Unconstitutional” by Kristina Davis for San Diego Union Tribune
Ethics
“Hastert Allegations Cast New Light on His Speakership” by Todd Purdum for Politico
“Dennis Hastert Pleads Not Guilty in Chicago Court” by Monica Davey for New York Times
New York: “Schneiderman’s Evolution on Ethics” by David King for Gotham Gazette
Elections
“Pollsters Fret Looming Robocall Restrictions” by Mario Trujillo for The Hill
June 9, 2015 •
Tuesday Lobbying and Campaign Finance News Update
Lobbying California: “Businesses with Stake in California Politics Utilize Capitol Grounds” by Jeremy White for Sacramento Bee Campaign Finance “Two FEC Officials Implore Agency to Curb 2016 Election Abuse” by Fredreka Schouten for USA Today “Why So Many Women Are […]
Lobbying
California: “Businesses with Stake in California Politics Utilize Capitol Grounds” by Jeremy White for Sacramento Bee
Campaign Finance
“Two FEC Officials Implore Agency to Curb 2016 Election Abuse” by Fredreka Schouten for USA Today
“Why So Many Women Are Raising Money for Hillary Clinton” by Matea Gold for Washington Post
Delaware: “Bill Would Increase Campaign Donation Limits” by Jonathan Starkey for Wilmington News Journal
Massachusetts: “Baker, State GOP’s Use of Federal Funds Questioned” by Frank Phillips for Boston Globe
New York: “Carl Heastie’s Campaign Spending Blurs Line between Political and Personal” by Russ Buettner for New York Times
Ethics
“Dennis Hastert Rushed to Make Money as Payouts Grew” by Eric Lipton for New York Times
New Jersey: “Ex-Official Says Chris Christie Broke Grand Jury Law” by Kate Zernike for New York Times
Pennsylvania: “Fourth Defendant in Sting Case Pleads Guilty” by Angela Couloumbis and Craig McCoy for Philadelphia Inquirer
Legislative Issues
“Divided Legislatures Produce Gridlock, Not Compromise” by Alan Greenblatt for Governing
Indiana: “House Lawmakers Move to Shield Communications from Public” by The Associated Press for Indianapolis Business Journal
June 8, 2015 •
Jurisdictions Added to Our Website
The number of municipalities and regional governments our research associates track continues to grow. We now cover almost 300 municipalities and local governments. This is part of a continuous effort to better serve the needs of our clients. In that […]
The number of municipalities and regional governments our research associates track continues to grow. We now cover almost 300 municipalities and local governments. This is part of a continuous effort to better serve the needs of our clients.
In that effort, we have recently added abridged jurisdictions to our website. These entries, condensed due to the limited number of relevant local laws, provide the core information our clients need for their government relations work.
The new jurisdictions are:
Fairbanks, Alaska
Roanoke, Virginia
San Luis Obispo County, California
June 8, 2015 •
Monday News Roundup
Lobbying “Senator Would Limit Lobbyist Money That Fueled Liberal Allies” by Carrie Levine and Michael Beckel for Center for Public Integrity Illinois: “Rauner Tells Agency Heads to Give Lobbyists the Boot” by Rich Miller for Reboot Illinois Campaign Finance “Kevin […]
Lobbying
“Senator Would Limit Lobbyist Money That Fueled Liberal Allies” by Carrie Levine and Michael Beckel for Center for Public Integrity
Illinois: “Rauner Tells Agency Heads to Give Lobbyists the Boot” by Rich Miller for Reboot Illinois
Campaign Finance
“Kevin McCarthy’s Flair for Fundraising Fuels His Swift Rise to Power in House” by Noah Bierman and Evan Halper for Los Angeles Times
Arizona: “Secretary of State to Fight Clean Elections over Fine” by Bob Christie (Associated Press) for Arizona Daily Star
California: “Ex-L.A. Council Candidate Fined for Fraudulent Bid for Matching Funds” by Jean Merl for Los Angeles Times
Ethics
California: “Industry Sues Former Mayor, Alleging ‘Extensive Public Corruption’” by Frank Shyong for Los Angeles Times
New York: “A Political Survivor under Investigation” by Chris Bragg for Albany Times Union
Oregon: “Ethics Reform: House OKs bill declaring governor’s partner a public official” by Denis Theriault for Portland Oregonian
Texas: “Abbott Wants Lawmakers Willing to ‘Fight for Ethics’” by Dave Montgomery for Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Virginia: “Lawmakers Need a Raise, Governor’s Ethics Panel Says” by Alan Suderman (Associated Press) for Washington Times
Elections
“O’Malley Attacks Big Banks, Political Dynasties in Launching Uphill 2016 Bid” by John Wagner for Washington Post
“Rick Perry, Shrugging Off 2012, Announces He Will Run Again for President” by Manny Fernandez for New York Times
“Lincoln Chafee to Run for President” by David Jackson for USA Today
June 5, 2015 •
The Lobbying and Campaign Finance Reform Act Introduced in U.S. Senate
On June 2, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennett introduced Senate Bill 1480, The Lobbying and Campaign Finance Reform Act. According to Bennett’s press release, SB 1480 prohibits solicitations of campaign contributions from lobbyists when Congress is in session, eliminates lobbyist bundling […]
On June 2, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennett introduced Senate Bill 1480, The Lobbying and Campaign Finance Reform Act.
According to Bennett’s press release, SB 1480 prohibits solicitations of campaign contributions from lobbyists when Congress is in session, eliminates lobbyist bundling of large contributions, and amends the lobbying registration process to require a lobbyist to register if he or she makes two or more lobbying contacts for a client over a two-year period regardless of whether the lobbyist spends more than 20 percent of his or her time serving the particular client.
June 5, 2015 •
News You Can Use Digest – June 5, 2015
National: Poll Shows Americans Favor an Overhaul of Campaign Financing New York Times – Nicholas Confessore and Megan Thee-Brenan | Published: 6/2/2015 A new poll showed both Democrats and Republicans favor an overhaul of campaign finance laws, including limiting the amount […]
National:
Poll Shows Americans Favor an Overhaul of Campaign Financing
New York Times – Nicholas Confessore and Megan Thee-Brenan | Published: 6/2/2015
A new poll showed both Democrats and Republicans favor an overhaul of campaign finance laws, including limiting the amount of money that can be spent by super PACs and forcing more public disclosure on organizations now permitted to intervene in elections without disclosing the names of their donors. A majority also reject the argument that political money is a form of speech protected by the First Amendment. More than four in five Americans say money plays too great a role in campaigns, while two-thirds say the wealthy have more of a chance to influence the elections process than the average citizen.
The Murky (and Apparently Widespread) Use of License Plates as Political Favors
Washington Post – Amber Phillips | Published: 6/2/2015
In several states, low-number license plates – the less numerals, the better – are a way to show off someone’s political connections. That is because you cannot just walk into a Departments of Motor Vehicles and request one; you have to know someone to give you the plate. Then-New Hampshire Gov. John Sununu credits his distribution of the desirable license plates with helping George H.W. Bush win the state in a competitive 1988 Republican primary.
Federal:
Dennis Hastert’s Lobbying Firm Reeling after Indictment
Politico – Tarini Parti and Anna Palmer | Published: 6/4/2015
Former U.S. House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert resigned his job as co-leader of Dickstein Shapiro’s public policy and political law practice in the wake of his indictment for lying to federal investigators about structured cash withdrawals to an individual “in order to compensate for and conceal his prior misconduct.” Dickstein Shapiro is already scrambling to rebuild amid a client exodus, tumbling lobbying revenue, and high-profile departures. Some expressed doubts about the firm’s ability to right the ship. “It is going to make clients scratch their heads how does this kind of stuff, particularly at a law firm, go unnoticed and unchecked,” said a managing partner at a Washington law firm. “They’ve already lost a significant number of partners, and now they have a failing management structure allowing allegedly criminal activity under its nose ….”
Payments by Hastert Linked to Report of Sexual Abuse
New York Times – Michael Shear and Michael Schmidt | Published: 5/28/2015
Former U.S. House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert was paying a man to not say publicly that Hastert had sexually abused him, according to sources briefed on the evidence uncovered in an FBI investigation into the payments. Federal prosecutors indicted Hastert on allegations he made cash withdrawals designed to hide those payments and for lying to federal authorities about the purpose of the withdrawals. The man, who was not identified in court papers, told the FBI he had been molested by Hastert when Hastert was a high school teacher and wrestling coach.
From the States and Municipalities:
Alaska – Juneau APOC Office Skeletal after Cuts
Peninsula Chronicle – Katie Moritz (Morris News Service) | Published: 6/1/2015
The Juneau office of the Alaska Public Offices Commission (APOC), which is responsible for holding the state’s approximately 135 lobbyists financially accountable, took a crippling budget hit from lawmakers when it was dealt a cut that eliminated both existing full-time positions. When the new fiscal year begins, the current part-time assistant will become the one full-time employee in the office. Leslie Ridle, deputy commissioner of the Department of Administration, said she does not think one staff member in Juneau and seven staff statewide is enough to handle APOC’s workload or uphold its mission.
California – Law Students Propose Bill to Close Lucrative Capitol Lobbying Loophole
Los Angeles Times – Melanie Mason | Published: 6/2/2015
Three law students have sponsored a bill that would designate as lobbying the act of communicating with government officials in hopes of influencing how they spend taxpayers’ money on goods and services, and require lobbyists to publicly disclose that activity. Assembly Bill 1200 would cast sunlight into an opaque and lucrative corner of lobbying. The students did research, drafted bill language, and shopped for a legislator to carry their proposal.California Assemblyperson Richard Gordon became its official author. “When the students came to me and said, ‘do you realize there is this loophole that allows folks to lobby relative to contracting?’ I said you’ve got to be kidding me,” Gordon said.
Colorado – High-Powered Attorneys, Lobbyists Give Big to Denver Candidates
Denver Post – Jon Murray | Published: 5/31/2015
A Denver Post analysis of $4.1 million given to candidates in the run-up to Denver’s municipal elections found at least $290,000 came from attorneys and lobbyists. Another $159,000 was donated by individuals involved in development or real estate. That industry is booming in Denver but has been at the center of one of the election’s biggest issues – the pace of development. Unions, city contractors, and business associations also contributed heavily to candidates. Watchdogs say such hefty direct donations from big interests point to a need for tighter contribution limits in Denver, or some kind of public financing that might amplify the impact of contributions from small donors.
Connecticut – Senate Democrats Reject Campaign Finance Overhaul
Hartford Courant – Jenny Wilson | Published: 6/2/2015
The Connecticut Senate rejected a House-approved bill that would have imposed limits on how much state parties can spend to support a publicly funded campaign. The legislation also would have reduced the maximum contribution that individuals could give to state parties to $5,000. The measure was a direct response to the state Democratic Party spending over $1 million last year to support the campaigns of Sen. Ted Kennedy, Jr. and Gov. Dannel Malloy, who were both participating in the Citizen’s Election Program.
Hawaii – Antiquated Law Spares Lobbyists in Honolulu Ethics Scandal
Honolulu Civil Beat – Nick Grube | Published: 6/1/2015
Nestor Garcia, a former Honolulu City Council member, agreed to pay an $8,100 fine after the Ethics Commission found evidence he illegally accepted free meals and golf from lobbyists. The commission said Garcia failed to disclose a conflict-of-interest on a number of bills and resolutions that affected the lobbyists’ interests. But amid the growing scandal, lobbyists have come out relatively unscathed. There has been little scrutiny of their actions, and it is doubtful there will be any punitive action taken against them. Honolulu Ethics Commission Executive Director Chuck Totto would like to update the ethics code on lobbyist gift-giving, but does not have the staff to the handle that extra workload.
New York – How Lobbying in Albany Works
New Yorker – Chris Smith | Published: 5/28/2015
With the recent indictments of the leaders of the New York Assembly and Senate, lobbyists could have even more influence in shaping public policy. But lobbyists usually try to stay under the radar, so their day-to-day activities are often unclear. In an interview, a prominent lobbyist in Albany gave an inside view of his profession.
Pennsylvania – City Council Gives Initial Thumbs Up to New Rules on Independent PACs
KYW – Mike Dunn | Published: 5/29/2015
A Philadelphia City Council committee approved a bill authored by the city’s Board of Ethics that would impose new reporting requirements on independent PACs and non-profits that spend money in support of a candidate. The legislation would affect any person, political committee, or non-profit that spends more than $5,000 within 50 days of an election. They would face four reporting deadlines within the 50 day pre-election period, and they would have to list all funding received and expenditures made, not just the spending that triggered the filing.
Pennsylvania – Two More Dems Plead Guilty in Sting Case
Philadelphia Inquirer – Angela Couloumbis and Craig McCoy | Published: 6/1/2015
A state lawmaker and an ex-representative, both Philadelphia Democrats, pleaded guilty to criminal charges stemming from a bribery scandal. Rep. Ron Waters pleaded guilty to nine conflict-of-interest counts. He resigned his seat and will serve 23 months on probation. Former Rep. Harold James pleaded guilty to a single count of conflict-of-interest and received 12 months of probation. The cases were built on secret recordings by an informant posing as a lobbyist, who offered cash or gifts in exchange for promises of official favors. The investigation had been a secret until it was reported that Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane had decided against pursuing it. Kane inherited the case from her predecessors and she attacked it as too fatally flawed to win convictions.
Texas – Overhaul of Scandal-Torn State-Contracting System Wins Final Approval
Fort Worth Star-Telegram – Dave Montgomery | Published: 6/1/2015
Texas lawmakers approved a bill aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in state contracts. The legislation prohibits conflicts-of-interest between agency heads and vendors, strengthens top-level supervision in the awarding of contracts, and increases scrutiny of vendor performance in carrying out the contracts. Agencies would also be required to post on their websites any noncompetitively bid contract along with the statutory justification for why it was awarded. The bill would require an agency board to approve any contract over $1 million.
Vermont – Condos Pitches Ethics Commission in Wake of Impropriety Allegations
VTDigger.org – Anne Galloway | Published: 6/3/2015
Vermont Secretary of State Jim Condos is calling for the establishment of a state ethics commission. The Center for Public Integrity in 2012 gave Vermont an overall grade of “D+” for its ethics laws. It was “in large part because we do not have an authoritative ethics commission or the required financial disclosures existing in nearly every other state,” Condos wrote in his proposal. He said his office has no authority to investigate or enforce against such problems, and the people complaining often ended up feeling frustrated and increasingly cynical.
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