House Ethics Committee hears legislation banning gifts from lobbyists that exceed $30

See Related Stories

Intro:	Lobbyists did not object to a bill that would limit the costs of their gifts, but they did have some questions about the bill's fine print.
RunTime:	0:31
OutCue:	SOC

Wrap: During the hearing, lobbyists asked the House Governmental Accountability Committee if the 30 dollar limit would apply to those with family members or spouses who are also elected officials. Jay Barnes, the Republican from Jefferson City who sponsored the bill, took those concerns in stride, but with an added sense of humor.

Actuality:	BARNES1.WAV
Run Time:	00:04
Description: For some cheap husbands this might be a get out of Christmas free card.

One of the lobbyists raising questions is married to a legislative assistant.

Reporting from the state Capitol with Hannah Knight, I'm Jill Ornitz.

Intro:	Lobbyists in Jefferson City did not voice opposition to a plan to limit how much they can spend wining and dining lawmakers.
RunTime:	0:35
OutCue:	SOC

Wrap: Long-time lobbyist Sam Licklider voiced concerns that the bill could infringe upon the rights of lobbyists with family members or spouses working for the legislature.

Actuality:	LICK1.WAV
Run Time:	00:10
Description: I think you have a public policy question of how deeply do you delve into people's personal, intimate lives.

Another lobbyist asked the House Governmental Accountability Committee about what restrictions were placed on the 30 dollars, whether that means 30 dollars per day or 30 dollars per lobbyist total.

Reporting from the state Capitol with Hannah Knight, I'm Jill Ornitz.

Intro:	Lobbyists raised questions about a bill that would limit their giving gifts rather than object.
RunTime:	0:36
OutCue:	SOC

Wrap: Lobbyist Michael Reid asked the House Governmental Accountability Committee how the bill defines the 30 dollar limit.

Actuality:	REID1.WAV
Run Time:	00:14
Description: But the real question is, is that 30 dollars per day? Is that 30 dollars per year? Is that 30 dollars per client? Is that 30 dollars per lobbyist? Is that 30 dollars per principle? We just want to make sure that that's clear.

Anotherr lobbyist asked the committee if the 30 dollar limit would apply to lobbyists with family members or spouses who serve as elected officials, as that could violate basic rights to privacy.

Reporting from the state Capitol with Hannah Knight, I'm Jill Ornitz.