TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) Lobbyists have spent more than $500,000 entertaining Kansas lawmakers so far this year.
Kansas law prohibits lobbyists from making campaign donations during the session and limits their spending to $100 on lawmaker gifts. But Kansas doesn’t limit the amount of food and drink a lobbyist can buy lawmakers.
The Wichita Eagle reports lobbyists have spent more than $500,000 since January treating Kansas lawmakers to dinner, drinks and other entertainment.
The Kansas Bankers Association spent the most on food and entertainment for lawmakers, at $26,135. The Kansas Chamber of Commerce was second with $20,139.
Advocates for transparency say such spending can help sway lawmakers’ votes, but lawmakers say free food doesn’t influence their votes.
