Government officials in Texas suspect that a few interest groups are working for their own personal interests rather than the welfare of the society. Explain how the concerned government body can regulate the workings of the interest groups
What will be an ideal response?
Answer:
A. Regulations of interest groups
1. Lobbyist Registration Act (1970s)
a. passed in Texas to identify who was trying to influence legislation on behalf of client groups
b. registration was to control interest group actions
2. Texas Ethics Commission (1990s)
a. lobbyists and interest groups must report periodically
b. monitors activities and expenditures
c. tighter restrictions
3. Restrictions for interest groups and representatives
a. lobbyists must register if they receive more than $1000 per quarter as compensation for engaging in activities with legislative and executive members in hopes of influences legislation
b. must register if they spend more than $500 on communications aimed at influencing legislation
4. Certain actions prohibited
a. loans
b. transportation and lodging (some exceptions)
c. expenditures for entertainment, awards, gifts more than $500
B. Restrictions have reduced unlimited spending in Texas politics
1. experienced lobbyists for business and associations can still spend a lot of money in pursuit of influencing legislation
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