Lobbyist Wining And Dining Could Soon End

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(STATEHOUSE) - The legislature reconvenes today, and if two lawmakers have their way, it’ll be the last session in which their colleagues are wined and dined by lobbyists.

Lobbyists must disclose any gift to legislators worth more than 100 dollars. Carmel Senator Mike Delph wants to push that limit down to 25 bucks, low enough to encompass lunch at a mid-range restaurant.

Indianapolis Representative John Day has proposed that in the past -- but this year, he's calling for an outright ban on gift-giving. He says lobbyists don't buy votes, but they do buy access and goodwill that's not available to ordinary citizens.

The only exception day would make is for a meal to which the entire legislature is invited. His bill would also ban former legislators from lobbying their ex-colleagues for two years after leaving office.

Two House members have resigned to become lobbyists since the last session ended nine months ago.

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