Is the best way to a lawmaker’s heart through his stomach?
May 28, 2008
In 1999, Maryland prohibited lobbyists from buying meals for lawmakers as part of an ethics reform law. Pretty simple, right? Well, not according to Tuesday’s Washington Post.
The Post reports that Maryland lobbyists spent nearly $1 million during the course of this year’s General Assembly session on meals for groups of lawmakers. The practice is allowed for delegations and committees, but not for individuals.
Some lobbyists argue that the meals are a valuable (and definitely legal) way to get some time to discuss their key issues with the people who are making decisions on them. Still, it takes a lot of juice to be able to drop $3,700 at an Annapolis steakhouse. Not just anyone can do it.
Let’s not forget, though, that lobbyists are also allowed to make campaign contributions so long as they report them.
It’s certainly an interesting debate. Are the group meals OK by you? And if so, would you support allowing lobbyists to buy meals for individual legislators again?
ANDY ROSEN, Business Writer
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