By John Marty
During the next couple of weeks, the Minnesota legislature has the unique opportunity to make the political process more responsive to the public interest and begin to restore trust in government.
It's time to shake things up by banning the gifts and perks from lobbyists. Whether talking about campaign contributions or perks, many lobbyists will readily admit that they give them to gain access. Even some legislators have admitted that it may have a "chilling effect" on the ability of lobbyists to have access if they are unable to provide free meals. This tacit acknowledgment that the free meals and perks increase access should be enough reason on its own to ban the perks.
My legislation, Senate File 24, would ban perks and gifts from lobbyists and stop the revolving door between public office and lobbying. I don't bash politicians or lobbyists. But we cannot justify allowing anyone an upper hand in the political process because they are able to spend more money on public officials.
Critics of this reform argue that most perks are relatively small, and nobody is "buying" any votes. They are correct that most perks are on a scale of tickets to a Vikings game or dinner and drinks, not more extravagant gifts.
But they miss the point. It's not a question of buying or selling votes - bribery is already banned under state law. A gift from a lobbyist to a legislator is intended to gain access and build good will. This is not simply a matter of public perception. It's a real problem. These gifts create an "insiders club" at the Capitol that gives better access to certain players.
Critics also argue that a ban on perks is too harsh and unworkable. However, our own state employees are already subject to a total ban on gifts. It's time to end the double standard and require legislators, the governor, executive branch commissioners and local officials to live under the same rules.
This ban on free meals will not prohibit public officials from meeting with anyone, lobbyists or constituents. If it is more convenient for a busy public official to discuss issues over a meal, that's fine. S.F. 24 makes no restrictions with whom one can eat, it simply requires public officials to pay their own way. S.F. 24 provides exemptions for a meal in which a legislator or public official is speaking or making a presentation. It also specifically exempts a cup of coffee and other refreshments under $4 that are given as part of ordinary office hospitality.
S.F. 24 would also prohibit public officials from leaving office and immediately lobbying their former colleagues. It is no wonder that the public has become cynical about a system that allows an official to leave office on Friday only to return the following Monday wearing a lobbyist's hat.
In addition, this bill would require more disclosure from elected officials, and more comprehensive reporting of lobbyists' and special interest groups' expenditures, so the public knows precisely how much is being spent to influence the political process.
Minnesota legislators began addressing the influence of special interest money last year, by taking some significant steps to address campaign finance reform. In 1994 we can continue that progress with the passage of S.F. 24.
No lobbyists or interest groups should be able to get any preferential treatment - no matter how small - because they are able to spend more money on public officials. We must break the powerful link between money and politics. S.F. 24 is a bold step in that direction.
Sen. John Marty. DFL-Roseville, is author of S.F. 24 and chair of the Senate Ethics and Campaign Reform Committee. He is also the DFL candidate for governor of Minnesota.
(Reprinted from the Minneapolis Star Tribune Commentary Page, Tuesday March 8)
Prepared by Minnesotans for Marty, 2161 University Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55114 Telephone/Fax: (612)644-5775/644-4131