Political Quotes

Melvin Watt: “what ever happened to our gift ban? Last year the House voted two separate times to stop lobbyists from paying for…”

On the recordJanuary 30, 1995
what ever happened to our gift ban? Last year the House voted two separate times to stop lobbyists from paying for Members' meals, entertainment and other ``gimmees,'' but the Republicans in the other body stopped the gift ban in its tracks. On the first day of this Congress, Mr. Speaker, House Democrats moved to impose tough gift restrictions and royalty limits, but the effort failed with not a single Republican in support. In the meantime, the image of our Members continues to be battered by book deals and other appearances of impropriety. If we are looking for respect, let us pass the gift ban. Mr. Speaker, give our image a break. Let us pass a gift ban.
Said by
Melvin Watt
North Carolina
Source
govinfo.gov

Editor's note · Context

Addressing the failure to pass a gift ban to limit lobbyist influence on Congress.

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