Vote set for today on ethics reform

The house is set to vote today on sweeping changes to Georgia's ethics laws.

The measure by House Speaker David Ralston would bar lobbyists from giving gifts to state or local elected officials.

More people would also have to register as lobbyists but the fees to do so would be reduced from $300 to $25.

"The intention was never to capture people who come here and want to express their views on issues to members of this body or the Senate," he told members of the House Rules Committee last week.

The bill also restores the power to the State Ethics Commission to adopt regulations.

But critics complain the bill still doesn't go far enough.  While it excludes travel, lobbyists would still be allowed to pay for out of town trips and dinners for committees and groups of lawmakers.

Listen

news

weather

traffic

mobile apps

Everything you love about wsbradio.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!