Capitol lobbyists are big spenders

July 19, 2013

If you have ever wondered how much money is spent annually by capitol lobbyists to influence politicians and help write a constant flow of proposed legislation, this new database will provide some answers. (Sacramento Bee)

The newspaper reports that $564 million was spent on lobbying California lawmakers during the 2011-2012 legislative session, an increase of 5 per cent over the previous year.

Biggest spender was a major representative of the oil industry, spreading out nearly $10 million in legislative largesse during the 12-month period through the Western States Petroleum Association.

Also playing big in the influence department were the California Teachers Association ($8.39 million) and the California State Council of Service Employees (($8.67 million).

The California Chamber of Commerce kicked in $6.65 million for their lobbying program. Chevron Corp. spent $5.66 million.

Here a link to the complete database.