Lobbying

Maryland: “Fresh out of Md. Senate, Garagiola joins law firm with major Annapolis lobbying presence” by John Wagner in The Washington Post.

Wisconsin: “Spending on lobbying down in Wisconsin as unions continue to reel from Act 10” by Jack Craver in The Capital Times.

Campaign Finance

“$1 million campaign donations: Coming soon?” by Byron Tau in Politico.

“It’s Time To End Our Failed Affair With Campaign Finance Laws” op/ed by Paul Sherman in Forbes.

“PACs spent more at state level than on federal campaigns” by Reid Wilson in The Washington Post.

“FEC Disclosure Takes a Hit in Nonelection Years” by Tony Raymond in Politico’s Moneyline.

California: “Campaign finance bills fare poorly in California Legislature” by Chris Megerian and Melanie Mason in the Los Angeles Times.

North Carolina: “Dome: GOP candidates received most PAC money in 2011-12” by Lynn Bonner and Rob Christensen in the News & Observer.

Ethics

Louisiana: “Ex-La. lawmaker asks to remain free on bond” by The Associated Press in the Baton Rouge Advocate.

New York: “Oops. Ethics board leader forgot to renew his law license” by Martha Neil in the ABA Journal.

Washington: “Spokane mayor proposes city ethics ‘upgrade’” by Nicholas Deshais in The Spokesman-Review.

State Legislatures

Oregon: “Governor pushing special session” by Hannah Hoffman in the Statesman Journal.

Elections

Florida: “Fla. Elections Commission Wants Garnishment Power” by Ryan Benk on WFSU News.

New Jersey: “N.J. can continue to use electronic voting machines, court rules” by The Associated Press in the Star-Ledger.

Pennsylvania: “Special election date set for the 78th state House district seat” by Jan Murphy in the Patriot-News.

Lobbying

“Senior Cornyn counsel joins McBee Strategic” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

Minnesota: “Lobbyists spend most time, money lobbying mining bill in Wisconsin Legislature” by Scott Bauer (Associated Press) in the Star Tribune.

Campaign Finance

“Next big case on campaign contribution limits likely depends on chief justice’s vote” by Debra Cassens Weiss in ABA Journal.

“Bachmann Hires ‘Fixer’ for Campaign Money Troubles” by Emily Pierce and Eliza Newlin Carney in Roll Call.

“Report: Boehner Has Campaign Finance Troubles” by Matt Fuller in Roll Call.

Delaware: “Special prosecutor probes Gov. Jack Markell’s 2008 campaign” by Maureen Milford in the News Journal.

Pennsylvania: “U.S. subpoenas records of five Phila. Judges” by Craig R. McCoy, Mark Fazlollah, and Dylan Purcell in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Rhode Island: “R.I. Board of Elections owed more than $1.4 million in campaign fines” by Philip Marcelo in the Providence Journal.

Ethics

Florida: “Ethics panel to review Fla. Gov. finances” by The Associated Press in the South Florida Times.

Pennslvania: “Ethics panel asked to review promotion of AG’s sister” by John Finnerty in the Tribune-Democrat.

Elections

California: “Voting Rights Act leading California cities to dump at-large elections” by Jean Merl in the Los Angeles Times.

Senate President Don Gaetz is calling for random audits of lobbying firm compensation reports. Gaetz says funding was never set aside for audits to be performed in the past, so he has asked the Senate general counsel to determine what powers the Legislature has to provide funding to conduct audits going forward.

House Speaker Will Weatherford has already indicated his support for the proposal.

Federal:

Firm Asks for Disclaimer Exemption for Mobile Political Advertising

Huffington Post – Paul Blumenthal | Published: 9/11/2013

A digital media firm is asking the FEC to exempt mobile ads from the traditional disclosure statements that apply to political ads. Revolution Messaging said most ads produced for the mobile platforms do not have enough pixels to reasonably include more than a dozen words required to identify who paid for the spot. The firm said disclosures would take up more than 40 percent of the available space for a mobile advertisement.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arizona – Opponents Go to Court to Stop Higher Campaign Limits

Arizona Daily Sun – Howard Fischer (Capitol News Services) | Published: 9/11/2013

A judge is considering whether to block a new Arizona law increasing limits on campaign contributions. The Citizens Clean Elections Commission contends the statute violates constitutional restrictions on changing voter-approved laws. Under the law, which takes effect on September 13, the cap on some donations would rise to $4,000.

California – Hansen Agrees to $50,000 Fine, Says He Doesn’t Want His Signatures Used in Anti-Arena Effort

Sacramento Bee – Ryan Lillis | Published: 9/9/2013

Hedge-fund manager Chris Hansen and two political consultants have agreed to pay a $50,000 fine for failing to disclose a campaign contribution to a group seeking to block a new Sacramento sports arena. Hansen was accused of making an anonymous $100,000 donation in June to a signature-gathering effort to require a citywide vote on public subsidies for sports facilities.

California – Three Fined for Covert Lobbying in California

Sacramento Bee – Laurel Rosenhall | Published: 9/9/2013

Three partners in a public affairs firm will pay fines for trying to influence state government decisions without registering as lobbyists. The Fair Political Practices Commission accused the employees of California Strategies of crossing “the line which separates policy consultants from lobbyists.” The settlement with Jason Kinney, Rusty Areias, and Winston Hickox requires all three to register as lobbyists and, along with their firm, pay a combined fine of $40,500.

District of Columbia – D.C. Executive Linked to Secret 2008 aid to Hillary Clinton

Washington Post – Ann Marimow and Philip Rucker | Published: 9/12/2013

Federal prosecutors say marketing executive Troy White received $600,000 in illicit funds to do unsolicited campaign work for Hillary Clinton in the 2008 presidential election. White pleaded guilty for failing to file tax returns reflecting the amount his company was paid. Court documents outlined an elaborate scheme and said White worked with District of Columbia businessperson Jeffrey Thompson to help Clinton during several primaries.

Florida – Execution Rescheduled to Accommodate Pam Bondi Fundraiser

Tampa Bay Times – Adam Smith | Published: 9/9/2013

Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi persuaded Gov. Rick Scott to postpone an execution because it conflicted with her campaign fundraising reception. Shortly before a scheduled execution, the state attorney general typically phones the governor to inform him or her there is no legal basis for delay. After Scott had rescheduled the execution for September 10, the date of Bondi’s “hometown campaign kickoff,” her office asked that it be postponed; the new date is October 1.

Florida – Senate Prez Wants to Start Auditing Lobbying Reports

Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 9/9/2013

Florida Senate President Don Gaetz wants the Legislature to make good on a never-enforced requirement that lobbying firms be subjected to random audits. He said he had asked the Senate’s general counsel to work with the House to determine how to kick-start the audits. Gaetz said the main holdup may be whether the Legislature has budget authority to begin the audits, or whether it would have to wait until the next fiscal year to launch them.

Indiana – Should Indiana Regulators Raise Money from Utility Trade Groups to Pay for Conference?

Indianapolis Star – John Russell | Published: 9/11/2013

The state ethics agency approved a request from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to solicit donations from utility trade groups to fund a conference of regulators from 14 states to be held in Indianapolis. Watchdogs say such a move could give utility groups a chance to curry favor with regulators, who make decisions on whether companies can raise rates or build new plants.

Missouri – Missouri House Speaker’s Side Business Raises Ethical Issues

Kansas City Star – Jason Hancock | Published: 9/6/2013

In addition to his job as a legislator and his position with a law firm, state House Speaker Tim Jones also earns money from the Missouri Freedom Alliance. Jones has offered conflicting explanations of what type of work the group does. First, he said it was legal consulting on basic legislative process. Jones later said it had nothing to do with legislative issues and instead focused on private legal matters.

New Jersey – Christie Vetoes Bill to Move General Election to October

Newark Star Ledger – Matt Friedman | Published: 9/9/2013

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie vetoed a bill that would have moved the November 5 general election to the date of the special U.S. Senate election on October 16. Christie also vetoed a bill that would let voters who go to the polls in October to also vote early for the November election, when the governor and all 120 seats in the Legislature are being contested.

New Mexico – Donald Duck, New Mexico Lobbyist

New Mexico Watchdog – Rob Nikolewski | Published: 9/12/2013

New Mexico Watchdog found “Donald Duck” on the list of registered lobbyist in the state. According disclosure reports, Donald spent $200 on dinner for “Senator Mickey Mouse” at The Bull Ring, a popular restaurant in Santa Fe.

New York – Forgive? No, a Night to Forget for Scandal-Tarred Candidates

New York Times – Michael Grynbaum | Published: 9/11/2013

Election Day was sobering for a peculiar brand of politician that emerged in the New York City election season: the scandal-tarred scoundrel seeking a second chance. The results reflected the mood of an electorate whose tolerance for the well-trod path of political repentance may have reached its limits.

Pennsylvania – Pa. Lawmakers Eye Bills to Thwart Corruption

PhillyBurbs.com – Natasha Lindstrom | Published: 9/9/2013

More than three dozen public officials in Pennsylvania have faced corruption charges since 2007. The House State Government Committee held a recent hearing to take testimony on ways the ethics law can be strengthened in hopes of restoring public confidence in state government.

Tennessee – TN Ethics Commission Opts Not to Fine Tom Ingram

The Tennessean – Chas Sisk | Published: 9/12/2013

The Tennessee Ethics Commission voted to dismiss a complaint filed against Gov. Bill Haslam that said he failed to disclose how much he paid Tom Ingram, his former chief campaign strategist, for political advice. The commission also declined to fine Ingram on for failing to disclose a lobbying relationship with a company hoping to win permission to mine on public land.

Washington – Ethics Rules Limit Freebies

Spokane Spokesman-Review – Jim Camden | Published: 9/6/2013

With college football season just starting up, Washington’s Legislative Ethics Board clarified that state lawmakers are not permitted to accept free tickets for themselves and family members. But it is all right for a legislator to attend a game as the guest of the university president and sit in the president’s box.

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.

Q. I am a registered lobbyist in five jurisdictions and just moved into a new house.  Is there anything I need to do to stay in compliance?

A. It is easy to be overwhelmed by all of the tasks associated with a move.  However, it is important to notify the jurisdictions in which you are registered of your new address as soon as possible as this affects both your lobbyist registration and reports.

For example, in Florida, a lobbyist must amend his or her registration within 15 days of a change. Additionally, registration renewal must occur on forms distributed by the state directly to the address listed on the lobbyist registration on file.  Without amending the registration to include a current address, the lobbyist will not receive the registration renewal materials.

In some states, a lobbyist can face penalties for failure to amend a registration upon a change of address.  In Arizona, a registrant must notify the secretary of state within five business days after any change to the information in the registration statement. If the state determines a violation has occurred, and the lobbyist fails to comply with the request to amend the registration, a hearing will occur and the state may issue a fine of up to $1,000.

To avoid facing penalties, know the registrations provisions of your jurisdictions.  In most cases, the jurisdiction will require you to provide an updated address.  Whether this process requires a phone call or amendment to your existing registration will vary. When in doubt, contact the overseeing agency to clarify the requirements.

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

Lobbying

“Lawmakers allege lobbyist intervention during hearing” by Julian Hattem in The Hill.

Tennessee: “Ethics Commission stalemates on whether to penalize Tom Ingram” by Tom Humphrey in the Knoxville News Sentinel.

Campaign Finance

A press release from the National Press Club: “Campaign Finance Experts Potter and Wertheimer to Discuss New Supreme Court Case Focusing on Donation Limits to Candidates” in the Rock Hill Herald.

Ethics

Delaware: “Developer pleads guilty to illegal contributions” by Randall Chase (Associated Press) in the Connecticut Post.

Virginia: “Cuccinelli donates $18,000 value of Star chief’s gifts” by Laura Vozzella in The Washington Post.

Wisconsin: “Lawmakers approve first audit of Wisconsin’s Government Accountability Board”  by The Associated Press in the Star Tribune.

State Legislatures

Minnesota: “Special sessions: How often and how long?” by Rachel E. Stassen-Berger in the Star Tribune.

Redistricting

“Time to tackle 2020” by Markos Moulitsas in The Hill.

Texas: “Court: Texas can use exiting election maps in 2014” by The Associated Press in the Las Vegas Sun.

Wisconsin: “Bipartisan group pushing for redistricting reform” by The Associated Press in WAOW News.

Lobbying

“‘Big bucks’ lobbying hurts American political system” by Jim Nowlan in the News-Gazette.

“Lobbying the Media Pivotal to Legislative Issues” by Dara Kam in Sunshine State News.

“The State of Lobbying in a Gridlocked Congress” on Bloomberg TV.

New York: “Bill de Blasio fails to go public about all meetings with lobbyists” by Mara Gay in the New York Daily News.

Campaign Finance

“Legislators in at least 23 states are trying to do something about dark money” by Niraj Chokshi in the Washington Post.

“Unions dramatically increase super PAC donations” by Michael Beckel on NBC News.

“Many overhyped super PACs are super in name only” by Tarini Parti in Politico.

“In Senate bid, Markey benefited by contributions and spending by PACs, outside interest groups” by Steve LeBlanc (Associated Press) in The Republic.

Arkansas: “Arkansas Is Next Battleground For Citizens United Constitutional Amendment” by Paul Blumenthal in the Huffington Post.

Colorado: “Colorado Recall Drives Reveal Influence Of ‘Dark Money’ On Local Politics” by Frederick Reese in Mint Press News.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Lt. Governor Mark Darr could face state ethics violations” by Elicia Dover in KATV News.

Massachusetts: “Former ethics officials seeking change that would assist Wolf” by Matt Murphy in the Hanover Mariner.

Missouri: “Missouri House speaker’s side business raises ethical issues” by Jason Hancock in The Kansas City Star.

Washington: “Ethics refs say free college football for lawmakers is legal” by Jordan Schrader in The Olympian.

Legislative News

“What (Not) to Expect from Congress This Session” by Peter Harkness in Governing.

“From Barbeques to Pink Running Shoes: States’ Special Sessions” by Pamela M. Prah in Stateline.

California: “Lawmakers to weigh about 400 bills in session’s last week” by Patrick McGreevy and Melanie Mason in the Los Angeles Times.

Minnesota: “Minnesota lawmakers return to St. Paul today” by Rachel E. Stassen-Berger in the Star Tribune.

Missouri: “Guns, taxes on the agenda as Missouri lawmakers return to Capitol” by Elizabeth Crisp in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Common Cause teams with techies to help voters” by The Associated Press in the Albany Times Union.

National:

Private Lobbyists Get Public Pensions in 20 States

Politico; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/26/2013

Lobbyists in at least 20 states receive public pensions because they represent associations of counties, cities, and school boards. Legislatures granted them access decades ago on the premise that they serve governments and the public. But several states have started to question whether these organizations should qualify for such benefits, since they are private entities in most respects.

From the States and Municipalities:

California – San Diego Mayor Bob Filner Resigns, Faces Criminal Investigation

Los Angeles Times – Tony Perry and Richard Marosi | Published: 8/23/2013

San Diego Mayor Bob Filner resigned under a barrage of sexual harassment complaints, offering an apology to his accusers while still denying the allegations. In exchange for his resignation, the city will pay most of Filner’s legal fees. It will also cover any punitive damages against him in any lawsuit. A spokesperson for the state attorney general’s office confirmed a criminal investigation into Filner’s treatment of women is underway.

California – State Panel Changes Disclosure Rules for Public Officials’ Travel

Los Angeles Times – Patrick McGreevy | Published: 8/22/2013

The California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) revised gift rules involving travel by elected officials. “[The FPPC] can only require disclosure or impose restrictions if there is a personal benefit to the individual,” said agency Chairperson Ann Ravel.

Connecticut – Former Donovan Aide Gets 38 Months in Campaign Scandal

Hartford Courant – Dave Altimari | Published: 8/27/2013

Robert Braddock, the ex-campaign finance director to former Connecticut House Speaker Chris Donovan’s unsuccessful congressional campaign, was sentenced to more than three years in prison. Braddock and seven other co-defendants who pleaded guilty were involved in a scheme that funneled nearly $28,000 to Donovan’s campaign through straw donors in an effort to get Donovan to defeat proposed legislation to raise taxes on roll-your-own cigarette shops.

Florida – Lobbyist Fee Reports Are Just another Type of Competition

Orlando Sentinel – Aaron Deslatte | Published: 8/23/2013

The large paydays reported by some Florida lobbying firms are causing many to cry foul on the state’s disclosure law. The behind-the-scenes criticism is focused on the law’s requirements mandating only that lobbyist detail what they are paid to ply their trade in $10,000 ranges. The reports have never been subjected to audits. Many complain other lobbyists engage in financial gamesmanship in order to boost their status or draw new clients.

Florida – Texas-Sized B-Day Party for Scott Aide Hosted by Lobbyist and Wife

Tampa Bay Times – Michael Van Sickler | Published: 8/27/2013

Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s chief of staff, Adam Hollingsworth attended a birthday party for another top gubernatorial staffer at the home of Daniel and Monica Russell. Daniel Russell is a registered lobbyist for Northrop Grumman, which has been in talks with the state about tax incentives for the company. The office handling those negotiations is the Department of Economic Opportunity, where Monica Russell is the spokesperson.

Illinois – DuPage County Board Loosens Cap on Campaign Contributions

Chicago Daily Herald – Robert Sanchez | Published: 8/28/2013

In an attempt to align itself with Illinois’ campaign finance law, the DuPage County Board voted to raise the county donation limit from $1,000 to the state standard of $5,300. The cap had applied to companies and consulting firms, as well as officers and owners of those entities, as well as to any individual appointed or applying for a position on a board, commission, authority, task force, or advisory committee.

Missouri – Klahr Chosen as Director of Mo. Ethics Commission

Miami Herald; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/27/2013

The Missouri Ethics Commission chose James Klahr to be the agency’s executive director beginning on September 13. He was a staff attorney for the state Senate and for Gov. Jay Nixon. Klahr replaces Julie Allen, who stepped down to become the elections director for the secretary of state’s office.

Missouri – Mo. Rep. LaFaver Arrested for Possessing Pot, Quits Democratic Campaign Role but Not House

Columbus Republic – David Lieb (Associated Press) | Published: 8/26/2013

A Missouri lawmaker who was arrested for possession of marijuana during a traffic stop said he would not resign. State Rep. Jeremy LaFaver has, however, stepped down as chairperson of the Democratic Party’s 2014 campaign committee. During this past legislative session, LaFaver sponsored a bill that would have reduced the penalties for marijuana possession; it did not pass.

Nevada – Emails Show How Political Advisers Trumped Staff in Winning Support for ‘More Cops’ Tax

Las Vegas Sun – Anjeanette Damon | Published: 8/27/2013

Before the 2013 legislative session began, Nevada Gov Brian Sandoval followed the advice of outside political advisors and decided to support a tax increase. An email exchange about the move offers a look into who holds sway at the governor’s office, including the role of the two lobbyists.

New York – Millions Sweeten the Casino Pot

Albany Times Union – James Odato | Published: 8/27/2013

The Seneca Indian Nation agreed to give David Flaum a $3 million “development fee” if a casino opens in Monroe County, and a contingency fee of up to $5 million if the tribe gets a state gaming compact by October 1. Lobbyists are banned from receiving contingency fees in New York. Flaum would have to register as a lobbyist if he begins appearing before government officials on behalf of the tribe, particularly for a gaming compact, and contract terms suggest the tribe might direct him to do so.

Ohio – Gov. John Kasich and Ohio Ethics Commission Linked by Political Contributions, Records Show

Cleveland Plain Dealer – Henry Gomez | Published: 8/23/2013

A Cleveland Plain Dealer analysis shows three of the five members of the Ohio Ethics Commission or their spouses have contributed to Gov. John Kasich’s campaigns over the years. Democrats see new relevance in these ties as they call for an ethics investigation of Kasich. The commission rejected a request to explore the governor’s involvement with Worthington Industries, a company that received state tax credits.

Ohio – OH Treasurer Crashes Twice, Makes No Staff Report

Miami Herald – Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) | Published: 8/27/2013

Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel might have violated state and federal campaign laws by traveling across the state this year in a vehicle bought by his failed 2012 U.S. Senate campaign. The possible violation only came to light after a traffic accident in which the Jeep Grand Cherokee was totaled.

Texas – Texas Mayor, Brother, Dad Charged with Corruption

Kansas City Star; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/28/2013

The mayor of a small city in Texas and his brother, the president of the local school board, were charged in a public corruption case that prosecutors said maintained a stranglehold over local government business for years. Also arrested was Jose Vela, the pair’s father and a maintenance worker at the local high school. Prosecutors said he ran city government through his sons and a revolving door of city council and school board candidates recruited by his family.

Virginia – Lax Laws Lead to Cloudy View of Lobbyists’ Spending

The Virginian-Pilot – Julian Walker | Published: 8/29/2013

Lobbyists reported spending $15.9 million in Virginia from May 2012 to April 2013. But critics say it is an incomplete financial picture of all that goes into policy persuasion and legislative influence in a state with lax reporting standards and enforcement of lobbyist disclosures.

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

Virginia: “Lax laws lead to cloudy view of lobbyists’ spending” by Julian Walker in
the Virginian-Pilot.

Virginia: “Lobbyist reports say $15.9 million spent in Virginia” by Olympia Meola and Jim Nolan Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Campaign Finance

California: “MapLight Launches Tool to Easily Search California Secretary of State Campaign Finance Data” by Jay Costa on Maplight.org.

Massachusetts: “Mass. AG: Lawrence mayor broke campaign law” by Steve Le Blanc in Bloomberg News.

Ethics

Florida: “3rd Fla. mayor arrested within the past month” by Curt Anderson in Bloomberg BusinessWeek.

Massachusetts: “Ethics Commission extends deadline for Dan Wolf” by Frank Phillips and Michael Levenson in the Boston Globe.

South Carolina: “SC ethics panel flip-flops on governor’s NC trip” by Adam Beam in The State.

Government Tech and Social Media

“Gamification: Governments Use Gaming Principles to Get Citizens Involved” by Colin Wood in Government Technology.

“Building the Social Town Hall” by Stephen Goldsmith in Government Technology.

Kansas: “State librarians open to texts, calls, IMs about legislative questions” in the Topeka Capital-Journal.

Lobbying

“Report: Top DC lobbyist Podesta retains Landrieu’s husband as realtor” by Alexandra Jaffe in The Hill.

Campaign Finance

Massachusetts: “St. Rep. Alan Silvia fined $20,000 by OCPF; second infraction this year” by Will Richmond in the Milford Daily News.

Ethics

“Senate Rules Committee Sets Date for Considering FEC Nominees” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

Arkansas: “State lawmakers plan refresher course on ethics” by The Associated Press in Northwest Arkansas Times.

New York: “Ex-NY assemblyman pleads guilty in corruption case” by The Associated Press in the Albany Times Union.

Ohio: “Mandel may have illegally used SUV in March crash” by Joe Vardon in The Columbus Dispatch.

South Carolina: “State Ethics Commission has questions for Haley after news of N.C. wreck” by Corey Hutchins in the Charleston City Paper.

Tennessee: “Tennessee governor names former parole board chairman to Ethics Commission” by Tom Humphrey in the Commercial Appeal.

Redistricting

Kentucky: “State lawmakers prepare for new legislative districts” by Amelia Holliday in the Hazard Herald.

Lobbying

“Former Rep. Jo Bonner Doubles Salary Outside Washington” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

“Prepaid card industry searching for first lobbyist” by Megan R. Wilson in The Hill.

Connecticut: “Connecticut Ethics office to audit 10 random lobbyists” by The Associated Press in the Norwich Bulletin.

Connecticut: “Lobbying tab for 2012: $51.7 million” by Jacqueline Rabe Thomas in the Connecticut Mirror.

New York: “Private lobbying groups for cities, counties get public pensions in at least 20 states” by The Associated Press in The Washington Post.

Campaign Finance

“Will High Court Widen Flood of Money in Politics?” by Albert R. Hunt in Bloomberg.

“20-somethings jump into super PACs” by Andrea Drusch in Politico.

Alaska: “Campaign finance training in Fairbanks” in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner.

Ethics

“FEC Commissioners Battle To Partisan Inaction” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

Ohio: “Gov. John Kasich and Ohio Ethics Commission linked by political contributions, records show” by Henry J. Gomez in The Plain Dealer.

Oklahoma: “Panel in charge of clean elections invites comment on ethics laws” in the Enid News and Eagle.

Wyoming: “Group urges Wyoming to toughen anti-corruption laws” by Joan Barron in the Casper Star-Tribune.

Elections

“Fall Filled With Special Elections for House, Senate” by Abby Livingston and Emily Cahn in Roll Call.

Redistricting

“Governor quickly signs redistricting bill into law” by Roger Alford (Associated Press) in the Lexington Herald-Leader.

Federal:

Campaign Finance Advocates Sue IRS

The Hill – Bernie Becker | Published: 8/21/2013

U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and watchdog groups filed a lawsuit challenging the IRS’ interpretation of a law that governs whether groups qualify for tax-exempt status as so-called social welfare organizations. The suit addresses one of the main concerns that surfaced with the recent IRS targeting controversy: differences between federal law and IRS rules on eligibility for 501(c)(4) candidates.

U.S. Lawmakers Travel the World on Lobbyists’ Tab

Reuters – Richard Cowen | Published: 8/19/2013

Lately, the number of privately financed trips for federal lawmakers offered by corporate interests, lobbyists, universities, and foreign governments have been rising. Trips this year total 1,363, at a cost to the hosts of $3.2 million. Congress clamped down on such travel in 2007 after disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff’s influence-peddling scandal.

From the States and Municipalities:

Arkansas – After Ethics Fine, Paul Bookout Resigns from Legislature

Arkansas Business Journal; Associated Press –   | Published: 8/21/2013

Sen. Paul Bookout resigned his seat in the Arkansas Legislature on the same day a special prosecutor was assigned to investigate his campaign finances. His resignation came days after the state Ethics Commission fined and reprimanded the veteran lawmaker for converting thousands of dollars in political contributions to his personal use.

California – Filner Could Be Out by Friday

San Diego Union Tribune – Craig Gustafson and Mark Walker | Published: 8/21/2013

A tentative deal has been reached in the sexual harassment lawsuit against San Diego Mayor Bob Filner that is likely to oust him from office. City Attorney Jan Goldsmith announced the plan after three days of settlement talks, but said he could not divulge any details until the proposed resolution is approved by the city council, which could happen on August 23. Filner has been under siege for weeks amid allegations he repeatedly sexually harassed women.

California – Hansen Revealed as Arena Petition Backer

Sacramento Bee – Dale Kasler and Tony Bizjak | Published: 8/17/2013

Weeks after billionaire Chris Hansen lost a bid to move the Sacramento Kings to Seattle, he made an undisclosed donation to a group trying to defeat plans to build a new facility for the National Basketball Association team in California. The Fair Political Practices Commission said the money was used to gather signatures for a ballot initiative designed to put to a citywide vote the council’s planned $258 million subsidy for a downtown arena.

Maine – For Maine Governor, Issue Is What They Said He Said

New York Times – Katharine Seelye and Jess Bidgood | Published: 8/20/2013

Maine Gov. Paul LePage denied he said President Barak Obama “hates white people.” Two Republican lawmakers said they heard the governor make the comment during a state Republican Party fundraiser. The problem for LePage, as even some of his allies acknowledge, is whether or not he made this particular comment, he has made so many other blunt assertions that while one more may not matter, the accumulation of such comments could.

Massachusetts – In Mass., Political Lobbying a $100M-a-Year Industry

Lowell Sun – Steve LeBlanc (Associated Press) | Published: 8/19/2013

In 2005, there were just over 800 lobbyists registered in Massachusetts. By 2012, that number had soared to more than 1,600. In part, the increase is due to a change in the definition of a lobbyist. The broadened definition, prompted by a 2009 ethics law, forced many individuals who had avoided the label to officially register.

New York – Nonprofits Are Balking at Law on Disclosing Political Donors

New York Times – Thomas Kaplan | Published: 8/20/2013

New York has emerged as a central battleground for efforts to mandate greater disclosure. Two years after a law was enacted that required tax-exempt groups lobbying state government to reveal where they got their money, a growing number of nonprofit organizations are seeking exemptions, arguing their donors could be endangered if their names were released to the public.

New York – Utility Officials Fined on Freebies

Albany Times Union – James Odato | Published: 8/15/2013

A year after national grid paid the New York Public Service Commission (PSC) $1.67 million to settle charges of providing illegal gifts to state regulators, the utility has agreed to pay $25,000 to settle the same charges with the Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE). The PSC fined National Grid for violating the public service law; JCOPE penalized the utility for violating state lobbying law.

Ohio – Ohio Ethics Chief: Kasich made clean company break

Miami Herald – Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) | Published: 8/15/2013

Ohio Ethics Commission Chairperson Merom Brachman said there is no need for an ethics probe of Gov. John Kasich’s relationship to a company that received hundreds of thousands of dollars in state development tax credits. Brachman, noting the commission is “anxious to not become a political theater,” said data provided by the governor shows conclusively there is no conflict-of-interest to investigate.

Pennsylvania – State Officials’ Free Gala Tickets Lead To Discrepancies in Ethics Reports

WITF – Mary Wilson | Published: 8/19/2013

The way Gov. Tom Corbett and a few state lawmakers treated free tickets to a Philadelphia soiree shows a wide variety of interpretations of Pennsylvania’s ethics law. Last year, the Barnes Foundation threw a gala celebrating its new museum and gave some legislators and members of the administration free entry. For other patrons, tickets were $5,000 each. State law requires gifts of such a value to be publicly disclosed.

South Carolina – Haley’s Attorneys Tried to Get Ethics Charges Dropped

The State – Adam Beam | Published: 8/15/2013

Emails between the South Carolina Ethics Commission and Gov. Nikki Haley’s attorney show she agreed to pay a fine and end allegations over campaign donors’ missing addresses only after irritated commissioners nearly took an agreement off the table and called a public hearing. Haley agreed to pay $3,500, reimburse the ethics agency $2,000, and forward money from eight donors, totaling nearly $4,200, to the Children’s Trust Fund.

Tennessee – Democrats Missing from Panels to Rule on Ethics Complaints against Haslam

Knoxville News Sentinel – Tom Humphrey | Published: 8/17/2013

A former state Democratic Party chairperson filed complaints with the Tennessee Ethics Commission and the Registry of Election Finance, contending Gov. Bill Haslam violated the law by not disclosing his personal payments to lobbyist and political operative Tom Ingram. The commission and registry currently have Republican majority membership because of unfilled vacancies in one case, because Haslam has left a seat designated for a Democrat empty since March.

Virginia – Attorneys for McDonnells to Meet with Prosecutors as Key Phase Opens in Gifts Probe

Washington Post – Rosalind Helderman and Carol Leonnig | Published: 8/19/2013

Attorneys for Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his wife met with federal prosecutors over the gifts scandal that has dominated state politics. The meetings open a critical phase of the investigation, timed to help prosecutors decide over the next few weeks whether to file charges, according to two people with knowledge of the investigation.

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Lobbying

“The Scent Industry Expands Lobbying Efforts” by JM Rieger in Roll Call.

Campaign Finance

“3 easy steps to avoid the threat of FEC penalties” by Emily Tadlock in Campaigns & Elections.

Ethics

Arkansas: “Special prosecutor sought in senator’s ethics case” by the Arkansas News Bureau.

Connecticut: “Mayor to toughen ethics code” by Brian Lockhart in the Connecticut Post.

Ohio: “Ohio Dem leader: Kasich ethics question unresolved” by Julie Carr Smyth (Associated Press) on Cincinnati.com.

Virginia: “Prosecuting Bob McDonnell no slam dunk” by James Hohmann and Elizabeth Titus in Politico.

From the State Legislatures

Pennsylvania: “Another Push Begins to Shrink Pennsylvania Legislature” by Karen Langley in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Redistricting

Kentucky: “Kentucky House panel to take up redistricting bill” by The Associated Press in WPSD News.

Lobbying

Canada: “Loopholes in Canada’s lobbying rules leave plenty off the books” by Glen McGregor in Canada.com.

Florida: “Florida lobbying firms showing big profits” by News Service of Florida in the Tampa Tribune.

Massachusetts: “In Mass., political lobbying a thriving industry” by Steve LeBlanc (Associated Press) in the Boston Globe.

New York: “Casino lobbying soars in Albany” by Tom Precious in The Buffalo News.

Campaign Finance

“FEC Fines McCain Presidential Campaign $80,000” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

Arizona: “U.S. court to hear challenge to state campaign-finance law” by Edward Gately in The Arizona Republic.

Arizona: “Phoenix critics say non-profit again skirting campaign-finance laws” by Dustin Gardiner in The Arizona Republic.

Arkansas: “Ark. ethics panel fines senator $8K for violations” by Andrew DeMillo (Associated Press) in the San Francisco Chronicle.

California: “State tops campaign donors in 2012” by Raju Chebium in The Salinas Californian.

Ethics

District of Columbia: “Fourth Person Pleads Guilty in DC Mayor Finance Scandal” by Ron Dory in Epoch Times.

Kentucky: “Embezzler Returns $275K to Democratic Governors Assn.” by Kent Cooper in Roll Call.

New Hampshire: “NH legislators say conflicts are unavoidable” by Tim Buckland in the Union Leader.

South Carolina: “Attorneys haggled over Haley’s ethics charges” by Adam Beam in the Rock Hill Herald.

Redistricting

Kentucky: “Kentucky legislators hope to tackle redistricting in short special session” by Tom Loftus in The Courier-Journal.

Government Tech and Social Media

“7 Must-Follow Lawmakers on Twitter” by Meredith Shiner in Roll Call.