But current lobbyists have formed very definite opinions about how the previous changes have affected their ability to influence lawmakers. Many say the world of lobbying is a now a much tougher one, one where they now act with extreme caution. Along with the possibility of losing a lobbying license also looms the threat of losing one's livelihood, or in the case of Evans, a prison sentence. Lobbyists now operate knowing they cannot afford to give off even the appearance of acting improperly, Miedusiewski said. But at least one outside political observer said he believes the changes should be of little consequence to most lobbyists in representing their clients interests.
Lobbyists are good at what they do.
Even under rules that allow them to treat lawmakers, lobbyists usually only gain votes based on how strong a case they can build with factual information, he said. But Christensen concedes the ethics changes do damage what he calls a critical part of the American political process. I don't think they should take that out of politics. If you're just providing information it takes all the human touches out. While acknowledging that the new restrictions could make it harder to build relationships with lawmakers than in past years, lobbyist Carolyn T. Burridge said reform was needed to clean up the State House.