US Democrats announce plan to curb lobbying

Democrats in the U.S. Congress announced their own proposals to put restrictions on lobbying on the Capitol Hill on Wednesday, one day after House Republicans unveiled their plan.

The Democrats' plan included measures similar to those proposed by the Republicans, such as prohibiting retiring lawmakers and senior aides from lobbying on the Congress floor for two years.

It also had a provision to shut down "pay-to-play" ventures such as the "K Street Project" where Republicans exert pressure on lobbying groups to employ Republicans and direct funds to Republican causes.

"The Republicans have turned Congress into an auction house for sale to the highest bidder," said House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

Democratic Senator Barack Obama said that "Instead of meeting with lobbyists, it's time to start meeting with some of the 45 million Americans with no health care."

The Republicans' plan announced on Tuesday included a ban on privately sponsored travel, enhanced disclosure of lobbying contacts and spending, and a virtual ban on gifts such as meals and tickets to sporting or entertainment events as well as travel.

Under current rules, approved interest groups and think tanks can pay for travels by lawmakers and their staff for speeches, meetings and fact-finding missions, and lobbyists are prohibited from paying for such travels. Members of Congress can also accept gifts valued at under 50 U.S. dollars, with a ceiling of 100 dollars from any one individual in a year.

Former lobbyist Jack Abramoff pleaded guilty early this month to corruption-related federal charges and agreed to cooperate in a corruption investigation that could implicated as many as 20 lawmakers.

Source: Xinhua