Lobbying bill has support from both state, lobbyists
Legislation introduced by Secretary of State Ben Ysursa this morning to clarify and expand Idaho’s lobbying laws has backing even from the lobbyists themselves, according to the Associated Press. AP reporter John Miller reported that Skip Smyser, head of the Legislative Advisors group at the Capitol, said there had been some disagreement under existing lobbying laws over what was required to be reported. If this legislation passes, it will eliminate the uncertainty, he said. "It's good to clarify," Smyser said. "The lobbying community has been very much involved and I believe will overwhelmingly support this." The changes were sought by Secretary of State Ben Ysursa after a June 2007 Idaho attorney general's opinion concluded entertainment and relationship-building at events such as the Idaho Governor's Cup, an annual charity golf event where lobbyists can pick up the tab for lawmakers to attend, meet the definition of lobbying. Click below to read Miller’s full report.
