Close the Revolving Door from Legislator to Lobbyist
Are you aware that statewide elected officials and state legislators can become paid lobbyists immediately upon leaving office? Under current Washington law, they can and sometimes do. And sadly, Washington finds itself among a minority of states in this regard; at least 31 states and even the federal government require a “cooling off” period.
What’s the problem? A lobbyist who just last week was a legislator has undue influence over their former colleagues. Additionally, this practice means that the job offer was made, discussed and negotiated while a legislator is still voting on issues that could impact their future employer. And public awareness of this practice contributes to the eroding of trust in government.
We can restore citizen confidence our government by passing these bills.
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