SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - Legislators began work in Pierre today to piecemeal some of the goals of the repealed Initiated Measure 22 relating to ethics and lobbyists.
Sioux Falls Representative Mark Mickelson co-authored the ban on gifts from lobbyists.
Mickelson says the measure is straighforward. Legisilators are limited to receiving $100 per calendar year from lobbyists and if they knowingly accept over that amount, they'll face a misdemeanor charge. He says the food and beverage immediate exception clause has a $75 cap per instance.
Committee Chair Representative Larry Rhoden says in the campaign for Initiated Measure 22, limiting lobbyist's influence was key.
Rhoden says IM 22 television commercials showed lobbyists handing fistfuls of cash to legislators. He says it was "the most offensive, deceiving ad campaign I think I've ever seen."
The House State Affairs Committee unanimously sent the bill to the floor, with a do pass recommendation.