Governor helps lobby reform bills pass key Senate committee

Governor's office steps in to help Wolk legislation to prevent lobbyists from lobbying officials with whom they have financial ties

"Today was an important vote and critical step in the process," said Wolk. "I'm especially grateful to the Governor's office for talking to members of the committee and the Chair of the committee who helped put together the votes needed to move our bills forward. When we introduced these bills last summer most people didn't think they would see the light of day. Today's win is strong evidence that bipartisanship is gaining ground in Sacramento and the commitment of the Governor to make important political reforms is alive and well."

"These bills will prevent the expansion of a new and emerging trend of combining lobbying, campaign management and fundraising efforts all under one roof," said Wolk. "Registered lobbyists, those who by definition are in the business of influencing the making of our laws, should not enter into financial relationships with the very officials they are in the business of lobbying. This is a clear conflict and it ought to be spelled out as forbidden territory."

"A legislator should not be asked to carry a bill or vote for a bill by someone that legislator owes money, whether it is the legislator or the legislator's campaign committee. It's wrong, and just about everybody knows it. I'm pleased this Senate Committee agrees." concluded Wolk.

The bills will now go to the Senate Appropriations Committee before being heard by the full Senate.