Ga. House backs banning some lobbyist spending

ATLANTA - Lobbyists would be restricted from spending money on individual state officials in Georgia under a plan adopted by House lawmakers.

The chamber voted 164-4 on Monday to approve the legislation from House Speaker David Ralston, a Republican from Blue Ridge. It now heads to the state Senate for consideration.

Ralston's bill would set restrictions on lobbyist spending in a state where there are currently none.

His plan would generally prevent lobbyists from spending money on individual state officials. But there are exceptions.

If it is adopted, the proposal would allow lobbyists to pay to send public officials and their staff to events related to their official duties. Lobbyists could not cover airfare. They could also pay for dining and other costs at events where legislative committees or subcommittees are invited.