Dig into the issue of lobbying in Pennsylvania State Government

What do you know about lobbying of Pennsylvania's representative government? One way to learn more about your government is to look at the people, organizations and businesses who are lobbying your elected officials. Become an expert by researching the facts.

Read - "Pa. lobbying costs average $1.4 million per senator", Pittsburgh Post Gazette, January 17, 2006.

"State Money Spent To Lobby State Officials", News 8 On Your Side government report, May 10, 2007.

"News 8 Follows Oil Money All The Way To Harrisburg", Simmoneau, Ben, WGAL TV 8. July 19, 2007.

What is lobbying?

How could a gift or campaign donation influence an elected official?

Who represents you?

What is your PA. Senate district? Who represents you in the state Senate?

What is your PA. House district? Who represents you in the House of Representatives ?

Name one other elected official in Pennsylvania State Government.

Use the search feature on the state's Campaign Finance Reporting site to investigate one elected official who represents you.
Examine the last 18 months. Who was the largest contributor to your state representative and to your state senator?
Followthemoney.org

How many individuals or organizations, based outside of your district, made contributions to your elected official?

Who made the largest contribution(s)?

Select an organization that made a donation. Find out about them in the Lobbyist Registration database.

Common Cause of Pennsylvania is advocating for reforms in lobbying. Read their proposal for Campaign Finance Reform.

Some people argue against campaign finance reform.

Use your online research skills to explore their perspectives on the issue. What is their position?

 

Write a letter to your Senator or Representative advocating for your position on campaign finance reform.

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posted 7/2007 In the spirit of Thomas Paine - released to public domain by Cynthia J. O'Hora

Aligned with the following Pa Academic Standards - Reading, Writing Speaking, History, Civics and Government, Mathematics, Civics, Science and Technology
Aligned with the National Standards for Civics and Government

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