Missouri Senate sets aside debate on ethics legislation

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The Missouri Senate has temporarily set aside debate on ethics legislation that would curb lobbying.

The bill would make lawmakers wait two years after their terms expire before registering as lobbyists. It would require lawmakers to reimburse lobbyists for most gifts within 30 days and lobbyists would have 48 hours to report such expenditures.

But debate was halted after a Democratic attempt to add an amendment to impose limits on campaign contributions. Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey said debate could resume today.

Another provision would bar legislators from serving as paid political consultants until one year after leaving office.

Missouri is the only state to allow the trio of unlimited contributions to candidates, unlimited gifts from lobbyists and no waiting period before an elected official can lobby.