The Senate approved a bill this week that requires lobbyists to provide more information about their relationships with lawmakers.
The vote, which came on the same day as the sentencing of convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff, sends a signal to lobbying groups to rein in their spending on public officials. The bill would prevent lobbyists, including those in the healthcare industry, from paying for lawmakers’ meals or giving out gifts.
Some officials expressed disappointment that the bill did not go far enough in pushing reform. Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL), voted against the bill because it did not include an office of public integrity.
