Proposed Ethics Rules Attacked And Defended

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Proposed ethics rules changes draw praise and condemnation at an <a href="http://www.ethics.state.ok.us/" target="_blank">Oklahoma Ethics Commission</a> hearing. Ethics Commissioner

Wednesday, December 19th 2007, 6:15 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Proposed ethics rules changes draw praise and condemnation at an Oklahoma Ethics Commission hearing. Ethics Commissioner John Raley is pushing a rule to lower the amount lobbyists can spend on lawmakers and others each year from $300 to $200. The rule would set limits for business meals at $15 for lunch and $25 for dinner.

Reports filed with the Ethics Commission the past two years have shown it is common for lobbyists to spend $100 or more to wine and dine legislators.

Raley's plan also would restrict expenditures on tickets to athletic events and concerts.

The Oklahoma Society of Association Executives has offered a counter proposal that would retain the present expenditures levels, but require more reporting.

Another rule change under consideration would bar the transfer of funds between political action committees.