Lobbying

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

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

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

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

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

Campaign Finance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ethics

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

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

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

From the State Legislatures

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

Lobbying

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Campaign Finance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ethics

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

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

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

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

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

Government Tech and Social Media

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

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

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

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

National:

Small Super PACs Playing Outsize Role in Senate Races

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

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

Federal:

Campaign Websites in 2014 Aren’t Always What They Seem

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

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

Law Doesn’t End Revolving Door on Capitol Hill

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

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

From the States and Municipalities:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii – Critics Say Hawaii Political Money Hard to Trace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vermont – Drafting Error Opens Campaign Finance Law Up to Amendment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

National:

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

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

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

Federal:

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

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

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

How Lawmakers Skirt the Law to Keep Their Next Jobs Secret

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

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

From the States and Municipalities:

Colorado – Federal Court Overturns State Political-Funds Law

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

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

Connecticut – Legislators Again Look to Lobbyists for Money

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

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

Georgia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Massachusetts – Court to Hear Supermarket Politics Challenge

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

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

Michigan – Ethics Proposal Nixed in Warren

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New York – Donor Secrecy Remains Big Issue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lobbying

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

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

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

Campaign Finance

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

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

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

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

Ethics

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

Elections

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

Government Tech and Social Media

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

Lobbying

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

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

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

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

Campaign Finance

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

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

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

Ethics

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

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

From the State Legislatures

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

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

Lobbying

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

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

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

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

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

Campaign Finance

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

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

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

Ethics

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

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

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

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

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

Senate Bill 6414, introduced this week by a group of Washington senators led by Senator Joe Fain, requires all reports to be filed electronically. The bill contains several other strictures, including requiring the Public Disclosure Commission to make all filings available on its website, mandating each lobbyist or lobbyist’s employer sharing in an expenditure greater than $25 to report the specific dollar amount of his or her share, and requiring all lobbyist filings to include an itemized list of all payments made to a state official, regardless of dollar amount.

Another section of the bill implores the Ethics Board to define the limits of “infrequent occasions” in the context of the acceptance of gifts of food and beverages by public officials from lobbyists. This section of the bill comes after a widely-read report showing the state’s 50 most active lobbyists pampered legislators with meals totaling more than $65,000 over a four-month period.

A final section of the bill allows lobbyists to avoid reporting expenses for a legislator’s food at a meeting with the lobbyist if such expenses were paid by the legislator.

Photo of the interior of the Washington State Capitol courtesy of Eric Hunt on Wikimedia Commons.

National:

More Compliance Chiefs Get Direct Line to Boss

Wall Street Journal – Gregory Millman and Ben DiPietro | Published: 1/15/2014

Many companies have responded to more aggressive government enforcement efforts by touting their compliance programs and even raising the rank of their chief in-house watchdog. But two surveys found the compliance department’s status within a company is often ambiguous.

Top U.S. Corporations Funneled $185 Million to Political Nonprofits

The Center for Public Integrity – Michael Beckel | Published: 1/16/2014

Scores of large companies gave at least $185 million to politically active nonprofits in 2012, according to the Center for Public Integrity. Shadowy spending has targeted elections at all levels, from the White House to state party committees. The extent of financial involvement from major corporations has been unclear, as there has been only a scant paper trail to examine.

Federal:

A Loophole Allows Lawmakers to Reel in Trips and Donations

New York Times – Eric Lipton | Published: 1/19/2014

A loophole in federal law allows members of Congress to hit hot spots like the Napa Valley wine country and famed golf courses, as well as five-star hotels in Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, and Florida, for campaign fundraisers. Campaigns and leadership PACs now pay the expenses for the catering and the lawmakers’ lodging at these events – so they are not gifts – with money collected from corporate executives and lobbyists, who are still indirectly footing the bill.

Super PAC, Outside Spending Chiefs Make Big Bucks

Roll Call – Eliza Newlin Carney | Published: 1/16/2014

New disclosures reveal details about the six- and seven-figure salaries reaped by the political consultants, lawyers, fundraisers, and media buyers who ran the top super PACs and politically active nonprofits in 2012. Such groups spent more than $1 billion in the first presidential contest since the U.S. Supreme Court deregulated independent campaign spending, shattering all previous records, and political professionals cashed in.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – Three Men Charged with Funneling Illegal Campaign Funds

Los Angeles Times – Tony Perry | Published: 1/22/2014

Hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal campaign contributions from a wealthy Mexican businessperson supported San Diego politicians, according to a federal complaint. A retired San Diego police officer, the owner of a Washington, D.C.-based election services business, and a lobbyist have been charged with conspiring to funnel more than $500,000 in illegal donations into recent campaigns.

Florida – Ex-Sweetwater Mayor Manuel Maroño Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison

Miami Herald – Jay Weaver | Published: 1/23/2014

Former Sweetwater Mayor Manny Maroño was sentenced three years and four months in prison for his part in a kickback scheme. Maroño and lobbyist Jorge Forte pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge that accused them of illegally splitting $60,000 for official favors and concealing those payments from the public. Both men agreed to promote a sham federal grant program for economic development that was peddled by FBI undercover agents who paid them bribes for their political support in Sweetwater.

Georgia – Ethics Commission Strips Personnel Decisions from Exec. Director

WSB – Sandra Parish | Published: 1/16/2014

Members of the Georgia ethics commission voted to give themselves the power to hire and fire employees, a duty that had been the executive director’s. In addition, the commission took no action concerning its attorney, Elisabeth Murray-Obertein, who is also a key witness in a pair of whistleblower lawsuits against the agency, after a police report said she was intoxicated at work.

Illinois – State Official Returned to Work after Nearly 30 Months of Paid Leave

Chicago Tribune – Jared Hopkins | Published: 1/21/2014

Joel Campuzano was on paid administrative leave for nearly 30 months while investigators in Illinois examined allegations he used his position to benefit himself and his family. During this time, he received seven salary increases. The state lost its fight to fire Campuzano, who returned to work in December and now makes $92,424. State Rep. Jack Franks said he supports the need for thorough investigations but agency directors should be limited in how often they can extend paid leave.

New Jersey – Political Pressure in Zimmer Allegation May Not Constitute a Crime, Legal Experts Say

Bergen Record – Herb Jackson | Published: 1/22/2014

Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer accused New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s administration of tying Superstorm Sandy aid to a politically connected development proposal. If Zimmer’s allegations are true, lawyers said the government will need to prove Christie or his administration received or expected to receive some kind of benefit in exchange for pressuring the mayor for a federal crime to have occurred. Attorneys disagreed on how clear-cut that benefit has to be, however.

Ohio – Should Politicians Have the Right to Lie? U.S. Supreme Court Could Decide in Ohio Case

Cleveland Plain Dealer – Sabrina Eaton | Published: 1/22/2014

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging an Ohio law that bars candidates and issue groups from lying in their campaigns. The Susan B. Anthony List claims the state’s criminalization of false political speech violates First Amendment rights in a similar fashion to the Stolen Valor Act, which the Supreme Court overturned in 2012. The justices ruled the law that criminalized lying about receiving military honors or decorations violated constitutional free speech rights.

Pennsylvania – Judge Strikes down Pa. Voter ID; High Court Challenge Likely

Philadelphia Inquirer; Associated Press –   | Published: 1/17/2014

A Pennsylvania judge has found the state’s voter ID law unconstitutional. According to the ruling from Commonwealth Court Judge Bernard McGinley, the requirement to present an acceptable form of identification when voting in person “unreasonably burdens the right to vote.” Enforcement of the law has been blocked by court orders pending resolution of the constitutional challenge. Both sides had vowed to appeal an unfavorable decision to the state Supreme Court.

Virginia – Bob McDonnell and Wife Indicted in Gift Scandal

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman, Carol Leonnig, and Sari Horwitz | Published: 1/21/2014

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, were indicted on 14 counts of fraud, conspiracy, and obstructing federal investigators, stemming from a gift-giving scandal. McDonnell and his wife have acknowledged taking gifts from businessperson Jonnie Williams, including catering fees for the wedding of the McDonnells’ daughter. In exchange, authorities allege they worked in concert to lend the prestige of the governorship to Williams’ struggling company, which sells dietary supplements.

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

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

Lobbying

“Whose former staffers make the most as lobbyists? Lott, Frist, Hoyer top the list” by Lee Drutman and Alexander Furnas in the Sunlight Foundation Blog.

“Most Top Communication Groups Increase Lobbying” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Alabama: “Alabama Legislature to take on two big issues on Thursday” by Max Reiss in WBRC News.

Connecticut: “Connecticut’s Big Spenders in Lobbying” by Joseph De Avila in The Wall Street Journal.

Campaign Finance

“Hillary Clinton foes file FEC complaint” by Byron Tau and Katie Glueck in Politico.

California: “Lobbyist charged in financing scheme” by Kristina Davis in The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Washington: “Senate Republicans want to alter makeup of state campaign finance regulator” by Brad Shannon in The Olympian.

Ethics

Louisville, Kentucky: “Senate panel votes to allow subpoena power for Louisville ethics commission” by Sebastian Kitchen in The Courier-Journal.

Virginia: “Experts: McDonnell’s corruption trial will test line between political favors, official action” by Carol D. Leonnig and Rosalind S. Helderman in The Washington Post.

Virginia: “Virginia Delegates Start Work on Ethics Legislation” on WVIR NBC News.

Redistricting

Illinois: “Group pushes for redistricting reform” by T.J. Fowler in The Southern Illinoisan.

Indiana: “House sends redistricting bill to Senate” by Erika Brock in The Reporter-Times.

Lobbying

“Nightmare on K St. — the 2013 sequel” by Kevin Bogardus and Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“K Street mines for gold in Silicon Valley” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

“Lobbying World” in The Hill.

“National Assn. of Realtorsʹ Lobbying Jumps 53%” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call’s Political MoneyLine.

Iowa: “Public sector spending on lobbying Iowa state government up” by B.A. Morelli in The Gazette.

Campaign Finance

California: “2 Charged for Illegal Campaign Contributions in San Diego Mayor’s Race” by Candice Nguyen in NBC 7 San Diego News.

Maine: “‘Clean electionsʹ advocates push for 2015 referendum” by David Carkhuff in the Portland Daily Sun.

New Mexico: “Courts limit reach of NM campaign finance law” by Thomas J. Cole in the Albuquerque Journal.

New York: “Cuomo takes a first step toward campaign finance reform” by Jessica Alaimo in Capital New York.

Texas: “Texas ʹDark Moneyʹ debate rekindled” by David Rauf in the Houston Chronicle.

Ethics

Florida: “Local lawmaker’s bill could ease ethics-reporting requirements” by Andy Reid in the Sun Sentinel.

Virginia: “McDonnell, wife charged with corruption” by Rebecca Shabad and Cameron Joseph in The Hill.

Redistricting

Ohio: “Can Ohio erase partisan pencils?” by Chrissie Thompson in the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Open Government

West Virginia: “Ethics Commission works to rectify meeting violation” by Phil Kabler in the Charleston Gazette.

Lobbying

“Some Corporations and Associations Cut Lobbying Expenditures” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Top-Ranked Chamber of Commerce Increases Lobbying In 4th Quarter” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“K Street pays top dollar for revolving door talent” by Lee Drutman and Alexander Furnas in the Sunlight Foundation Blog.

Campaign Finance

“The Consequences of ‘Citizens United’” by Ian Vandewalker in The Brennan Center for Justice Blog.

Maine: “Campaign watchdogs: Private groups will spend 80 percent more on Maine elections in 2014” by Mario Moretto in the Bangor Daily News.

New Mexico: “Report: PAC spending doubles after Citizens United” by Steve Terrell in the Santa Fe New Mexican.

Ethics

Washington: “Senate bill would shift control of Public Disclosure Commission to top legislators” by John Stark in The Bellingham Herald.

Missouri legislators made ethics a top priority at the start of their legislative session. The Legislature convened on January 8 and members filed at least 10 bills addressing issues such as lobbyist registration, gifts to public officials, campaign contribution limits, and revolving door provisions.

Although Missouri is one of few states placing no restrictions on campaign donations or lobbyist gifts, reform appears to be of bipartisan concern. Secretary of State Jason Kander announced the most comprehensive approach to ethics reform with HB1340, introduced by Rep. Kevin McManus. The proposal establishes contribution limits, closes the revolving door for legislative officials, and establishes a lobbyist gift ban.

Kander’s proposal is unique in that it also adds mandatory registration requirements for paid political consultants as well as whistle-blower incentives. Those who provide information about ethics violations could receive 10 percent of the fines collected for the violation they revealed.

The Legislature discounted opportunities in the past to address ethics reform. With momentum building, many are hoping this is the year for change.