A bill introduced in the Minnesota Senate by Sen Scott Jensen (R-Chaska) would ban legislators by law from registering as lobbyists until four years after they complete their time in office. SF 3216 states "A member of the legislature is prohibited from registering as a lobbyist for four years after the expiration of the last term for which the legislative member was elected." The House has a companion bill (HF2964) authored by Rep Cantrell (DFL-Savage).

Former Rep Nick Zerwas made news last December when he announced his sudden retirement, creating a taxpayer funded special election to fill his seat. Days before Christmas he tweeted that he took a job with a lobbying firm in Minnesota and in January he officially registered as a lobbyist. This move clearly violated Minnesota House rules that ban lobbying by former members for a year.

House Minority Leader Kurt Daudt, who leads the Old House Republican Caucus, took a job last year with a Washington D.C. lobbying firm. To skirt the house rules, Daudt didn't register as a lobbyist, instead his position of "Director of Public Affairs" advises registered lobbyists and makes connections for them at state capitols.

Sen Jensen's bill was referred to the State Government Finance and Policy and Elections Committee. We'll keep you informed if the Senate takes further action.

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