House Takes First Step Toward Overall Lobbying Reform

House Takes First Step Toward Overall Lobbying Reform

February 1, 2006

WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman David Dreier (R-CA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, applauded bipartisan passage today of a resolution that marks the beginning of comprehensive lobbying reform in the House of Representatives. A resolution changing the House rules to eliminate floor privileges and access to member exercise facilities for former members and members' spouses who are registered lobbyists was approved with strong bipartisan support, 379-50, with one member voting present. Dreier reacted with the following statement:

"Today's vote represents the beginning of a process as we move forward on bipartisan, bicameral lobbying reform. While lobbying on the House floor was already against the House rules, there has been confusion from time to time. With this change, there will be no more confusion. A bright line has been drawn. Every American has a right to petition their government. This change means that former members who are lobbyists will no longer enjoy special access unavailable to other citizens. "I hope every aspect of our reform agenda enjoys this much bipartisan support. As the process moves forward, we will work with committees of jurisdiction and members on both sides of the aisle to achieve a package of reforms that will enhance transparency, disclosure, and accountability in this Congress."

http://dreier.house.gov/releases/pr020106.htm