Graves proposed requiring that disclosure. Last year the Livestock Association and telecommunications industry were among the most generous lobbying organizations. Previous attempts to pass such legislation or to ban the freebies from lobbyists have been unsuccessful. Graves proposal may have little chance of success, but it is good to force legislators to publicly debate the issue. With more than 1,030 registered lobbyists representing a host of special interest groups and organizations, gifts from one lobbyist could well influence votes for at least 30 organizations the lobbyist represents, providing for a complicated web of influence.
Most legislators say no serious abuses are taking place.
Unfortunately, some people's perspective and votes can be bought. Any movement to erode the influence of lobbyists and bring it back to the general public is good for all of us. Requiring disclosure of lobbyists benefactors is a good idea that is long overdue for implementation. Legislators should support the proposed law.