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House debate fails amendment to expand lobbyist gift disclosures; SB246 passes as amended
Summary
Representatives debated Third Substitute Senate Bill 246, which adjusts lobbyist reporting and gift thresholds. An amendment seeking broader disclosure of meals and intangible gifts failed after floor exchange; the bill passed the House as amended (72–0).
Representative D introduced Third Substitute Senate Bill 246, explaining the measure contains changes to lobbyist conflict‑of‑interest and disclosure rules the Senate sent back to the House. He said the bill tightens reporting in some areas while removing other lines related to former principals or clients and clarifying when government officers are not considered lobbyists.
Representative Becker offered amendment number 3 to narrow the line between tangible and intangible property and to require reporting of meals between $5 and $50, arguing the public expects “full disclosure” of anything given by lobbyists. Becker told colleagues the amendment would close what he described as “significant loopholes” and urged the House to require disclosure of entertainment, recreation and other intangible gifts.
Sponsor Representative D opposed the amendment, saying a $10 reporting threshold would create a burdensome daily accounting task for members. He illustrated his concern with an example: “Come to my door, bring me some flowers… Come to the door, bring me some treats. I’m gonna start adding that up.” D argued the bill’s purpose is to target the lobbyist‑legislator relationship, not to regulate broad campaign contributions or ordinary constituent gestures.
Representative Noel questioned the practical difference between a large campaign contribution and many small gifts, asking whether grouping would create conflicts of interest; Becker and Noel exchanged about why lobbyist relationships are distinct from constituent contributions. Becker said the amendment was necessary for public trust; D and several others said the amendment would have unintended workload consequences.
The House voted on amendment number 3; the Speaker ruled the amendment failed on the floor voice/record (ayes/noes recorded), and the presiding officer declared the motion failed. The House then completed final passage of Third Substitute Senate Bill 246 as amended, with the roll call recorded as 72 yes, 0 no. The bill was referred to the Senate for further action.
