[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 58 (Thursday, May 5, 2005)]
[House]
[Page H2983]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            LOBBYING REFORM

  (Mr. EMANUEL asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, a constant stream of headlines in recent 
weeks has opened the public's eye to the all too cozy relationship 
between lawmakers and professional lobbyists. Professional lobbyists 
have become a virtual ``back office'' for Congress, serving as travel 
agents, employment agencies and authors of legislation. We have had a 
debate on campaign finance reform that ultimately set the rules between 
donors and candidates. Now we need a similar debate and legislation on 
how to distance the People's House from the professional lobbyists on K 
Street.
  The gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Meehan), the gentleman from 
Maryland (Mr. Van Hollen) and I have drafted the Lobbying and Ethics 
Reform Act. Our bill creates a code of official conduct for 
congressmen; closes the revolving door by requiring former Members and 
staff to wait 2 years after they leave Congress before lobbying the 
institution; ends the practice of lobbyists serving as congressional 
travel agents by arranging lavish junkets for Members; and requires 
lobbyists to disclose their past connections, previous Hill employment 
and financial activities on a public database.
  Mr. Speaker, when that gavel goes down, it should open the People's 
House, not the auction house for special interests. Only through 
lobbying reform can we restore the integrity of the Congress and regain 
the public's trust.

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