Lobbyists’ largesse makes large mark

By Chris Joyner


The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Times are tough and most Georgians have cut back their spending. Fortunately for Georgia lawmakers, there are lobbyists.

Lobbyists have spent more than $7.8 million over the past five years on meals, trips, tickets and gifts for state officials, mostly legislators. Despite years of recession, spending has increased from $1.51 million in 2007 to $1.64 million last year.

The flood of money and distrust of its motives makes many Georgians uncomfortable. A recent poll commissioned by the AJC found 72 percent of registered voters want a limit on lobbyist gifts — including 82 percent of Republicans, whose party controls the Legislature.

In Sunday’s newspaper, the AJC examines the issue. It’s a story you’ll get only by picking up a copy of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution or logging on to the paper’s iPad app. Subscribe today.