New Ethics Bill Reins in Tangible Gifts, Not Meals or Entertainment

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) Most lawmakers at the Utah Legislature insist that gifts from lobbyists do not influence their votes. But to address the public perception, they are advancing two bills to rein in gift-giving.

The latest from Senate Republican leaders requires lobbyists to report any tangible gift worth more than five dollars they give a lawmaker. But the more common freebies like meals, Jazz tickets and golf games would be exempt from the new reporting limit. State Senator Sheldon Kilpack says that's because meals and golf games are pertinent to the work of a legislator:

"It's a damned if you do, damned if you don't," says Kilpack. "Regardless, there's still going to be scrutiny. When you are sitting down to a meal to discuss a piece of legislation, I think there's a legitimate connection that you're sitting down and conducting business."

The distinction may also prove critical in gaining support from other Republicans in the Senate who have long rejected such ethics reform measures. Kilpack's bill also requires lobbyists to submit their gift disclosures more regularly. That is the primary difference between his measure and one already passed by the Utah House.

Neither body of lawmakers is inclined follow Governor Jon Huntsman who recently banned most gifts of any value to the executive branch.

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