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Eye On Boise

Giddings aims to limit some information

Here’s an article from today’s Lewiston Tribune:

Giddings Aims to Limit Some Information: Legislation would prohibit state-supported agencies from hiring lobbyists

By William L. Spence, Lewiston Tribune

BOISE - The University of Idaho and other state-funded entities would be prohibited from hiring lobbyists or attempting to influence state lawmakers under legislation introduced Thursday in a House committee.

Rep. Priscilla Giddings, R-White Bird, told the House State Affairs Committee her bill isn't intended to discourage state employees from taking part in the legislative process. For example, the measure specifically notes that they're allowed to testify at committee hearings, explain rules and respond to questions from lawmakers.

However, she draws a line between objective and subjective contributions.

 "When an agency shows up, I believe they should provide objective information. It's our role (as lawmakers) to put a subjective tone to it," Giddings said. "My definition of subjective information is that it's more opinionated, as opposed to facts or research-related information."

At least eight state employees currently are registered as legislative lobbyists, she said. Besides UI, they work for Boise State University, Idaho State University, the State Board of Education, Idaho Transportation Department and Idaho Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. As with any other lobbyist, their role is to help lawmakers understand the history and full complexity of various issues and to advocate for the interests of their organization.

 "Most taxpayers are completely unaware that their money is being used to fund lobbyists who support programs they may be completely opposed to," Gidding said. "This legislation works to restore the balance of power between the three branches of government. The current practice allows the people's money to be used to grow the executive branch, ultimately tipping the scale of influence away from citizens."

Washington State University Professor Melanie Wolf, who is substituting this week for Rep. Paulette Jordan, D-Plummer, wondered if restricting state agencies from advocating for their institutions would simply shift more power to privately funded lobbyists.

"UI is a very big part of our district," Wolf said. "I see how UI is represented here, with a lobbyist, as a way to make sure my constituents are fairly represented."

Giddings said when some institutions can afford to pay for a lobbyist and others can't, it creates an unfair balance.

"I think the way to get back to a fair balance is through this legislation," she said. "I'm not discouraging representation by the University of Idaho. I want them to be involved. I just don't want them giving me subjective information."

The committee agreed to introduce the bill on a voice vote, with Wolf and two others voting against the motion. That clears the way for a full hearing on the measure.



Betsy Z. Russell
Betsy Z. Russell joined The Spokesman-Review in 1991. She currently is a reporter in the Boise Bureau covering Idaho state government and politics, and other news from Idaho's state capital.

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