(AP) – The Missouri House is moving forward on a top
campaign promise by Republican Gov. Eric Greitens to ban lobbyist gifts to
elected officials.
House members voted 147-6 in favor of a proposed ban Thursday. It needs a
second vote to move to the Senate.
Missouri currently allows lobbyists to give unlimited gifts to elected
officials. Gifts given to lawmakers last year included free tickets to Beyonce
concerts and meals at swanky steakhouses.
The House bill would prohibit that.
Most representatives voted in favor of the measure. But some Democrats
criticized an exception that would allow lobbyists to cater free meals at
Missouri events for lawmakers and statewide elected officials if they’re all
invited.
The bill also includes exceptions for flowers and honorary plaques.
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