Political Activity Law

This blawg "discusses political activity law: campaign finance rules and reforms, issue advocacy, House and Senate ethics, gift, and travel rules, lobbying disclosure at the federal and state levels, and all other aspects of laws regulating how individuals and groups participate in the political and policy process."

Author: Eric Brown is a lawyer in Washington, D.C.

Blawg Related Categories: Election Law • Legislation & Lobbying

Recent Posts from Political Activity Law

The internet as a tool of political protest: lessons from China?
The Post reports on China’s netizens who are using the internet as a tool of protest. While almost every form of open dissent is outlawed in China, mass protests organized online are increasingly putting pressure…
House Ethics breach to prompt P2P laws?
This Times editorial discusses the House Ethics Committee’s recent file security issues and indicates legislation may be forthcoming. The vulnerable software is so popular that more than 20 million users are estimated to be on…
California lobbyists guinea pigs in campaign finance experiment?
The Sacramento Bee provides an overview of California lobbyists’ lawsuit to stop a public funding proposal. The lobbyists say the measure to make them collectively pay approximately $34 million to fund California’s statewide secretary of…
Lobbyist accompaniment on Pelosi trip
This Times article discusses fundraising, lobbyist strategy, and Rep. Pelosi’s position on healthcare reform. A spokesman for Ms. Pelosi said her role as House Democrats’ chief fund-raiser had no effect on her work as speaker.…
When does a government website cross the line?
A CRS inquiry prompted by concerns raised by Sen. Grassley raises issues about a government website (click image for larger view) soliciting support for President Obama’s healthcare reforms. Roll Call reports here. While agencies are…
National Journal’s preview of Citizens United opinion
National Journal, behind its pay wall, offers views on what Citizens United could mean for reform proponents. Advocates of campaign finance reform are mapping their next steps if the Supreme Court overturns two precedents that…
IRS releases new guide for 501(c)(4)’s and other nonprofits
The IRS has released a 44 page compliance guide for 501(c)(4)’s and other nonprofits here.
No investigation into Rep. Harman’s conduct
A report says that the House Ethics Committee informed Rep. Jane Harman that there is no investigation into her conduct in a matter involving her call to a foreign operative. “While the committee does not…
Ethics update on Rep. Shuler
The House Ethics Committee apparently released a letter involving allegations involving Rep. Heath Shuler, according to this report. The House ethics committee has informed Rep. Heath Shuler (D-N.C.) that he has been cleared of wrongdoing…
Realtors’ lobbying and the $8,000 first time home buyers tax credit
The Times connects lobbying efforts and the $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers. Realtors mobilized their 1.2 million members across the country to write and call their representatives and senators to urge extension…