Bill would limit lobbying during legislative sessions

Lobbyists would be limited in their ability to contribute to state senators or candidates for the Legislature while lawmakers are in session under a bill heard Feb. 22 by the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

Under the bill, no principal, lobbyist or person acting on behalf of either could make contributions to any member of the Legislature, candidate for the Legislature or candidate committee. The restriction would apply only to contributions reportable under the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Act.

Lincoln Sen. Bill Avery, sponsor of LB448, said 29 states have similar limitations on lobbyists and Nebraska should follow suit. Creating distance between senators and contributions from the lobby while laws are being made is simply good public policy, he said.

“Wrongdoing is not really the issue,” Avery said. “The essential issue is that this practice creates the public image that we are too cozy with lobbyists.”

Jack Gould of Common Cause Nebraska testified in support of the bill, saying it would help to address a concern about “invisible money.”

Gould said contributions of less than $250 currently are not required to be reported under the state’s disclosure laws. As a result, he said, it is difficult to follow the flow of money and influence at the state Capitol.

“You have to take a good look at the size of the lobbying force here in Nebraska,” Gould said. “About $14 million is spent yearly on trying to influence government.”

No opposition testimony was given and the committee took no immediate action on the bill.