Roanoke Times Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc. DATE: THURSDAY, May 6, 1993 TAG: 9305060217 SECTION: NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL PAGE: A-4 EDITION: METRO SOURCE: Associated Press DATELINE: WASHINGTON LENGTH: Short
The move is designed to address what its sponsor, Sen. Paul Wellstone, D-Minn., called "a systemic corruption" in Washington politics. Americans believe that monied interests able to pay for meals, travel and entertainment for lawmakers have hijacked their government, Wellstone said.
On a voice vote, the Senate agreed to require reporting of any gift to members of the House and Senate and their staffs valued at more than $20, or gifts that total more than $50 in a year. Only items of minimal value like greeting cards, or coffee and donuts, are exempted.
The provision also would require lobbyists who sponsor fund-raisers for members of Congress to report how much they spend on the events and how much is raised.
by CNB