LOBBY REFORM—Democracy Advocate Gary Kalman meets with Rep. Chris Van Hollen (Md.), left, who led the fight for strong lobby reform measures.

New Tougher Lobbying Rules

Just before the annual August recess, both the House and Senate overwhelmingly approved the most sweeping changes to lobbying rules in a generation. The U.S. PIRG-backed bill was then signed by the president on Sept. 14.

For the first time, lobbyists will have to disclose not only the contributions they give to candidates but also those they raise on behalf of candidates, allowing the public to know about individual lobbyists’ personal contributions and about the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars they “bundle” for candidates.

“These changes take our democracy out of the darkness and open up the process with meaningful disclosure and new, tougher rules on the actions of lobbyists and their dealings with legislators,” said U.S. PIRG Democracy Advocate Gary Kalman.

The bill also strikes at the “clubby” environment in which lobbyists buy members gifts, pay for meals and take them to sporting events and on lavish trips to gain access. Sponsors of bills are now required to disclose earmarks inserted in bills.

These changes will also slow the “revolving door” by which lawmakers can leave public service and immediately return as high-paid lobbyists for special interests with plenty of special access.