AP: 'Abramoff-itis' prompts state lawmakers to revamp lobbying laws

[Eugene]

'Abramoff-itis' prompts state lawmakers to revamp lobbying laws

By JOHN MILLER
Associated Press Writer

February 26, 2006, 3:54 PM EST

BOISE, Idaho -- State capitols across America have been hit by "Jack Abramoff-itis," as scandals
surrounding the federal lobbyist prompt legislatures from Idaho to Illinois to debate new laws
governing their own influence-peddling industries.

Oklahoma lawmakers want pharmaceutical manufacturers to report spending on lobbying to its state
ethics commission. Florida has a new law prohibiting lobbyists from giving gifts, including food
and drinks, to lawmakers.

Pennsylvania, currently the only state without a lobbying law, is considering new reporting
requirements. Reform fever also has hit cities: New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg aims
to ban lobbyist gift-giving before "the next Jack Abramoff arrives."

Just as stock market scandals including WorldCom Corp. and Enron Corp. four years ago prompted
reform efforts, Abramoff's gifts of golfing outings in Scotland and his guilty plea in a Florida
fraud case are prompting action at federal, state and local levels.

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Full article: http://www.newsday.com/news/local/wire/newyork/ny-bc-ny--abramoff-itisspre0226feb26,0,97875.story?coll=ny-region-apnewyork

Interesting overview, but not once does he use the word "Republican."