A recent analysis by the Globe has shed light on a legal loophole in a 30-year-old campaign finance law in Massachusetts. The law caps lobbyists’ donations at $200 annually, but their spouses can donate up to five times that amount. This loophole allows lobbyists’ spouses to be among the most generous donors to powerful lawmakers on Beacon Hill.
During the state Legislature’s most recent session, the top Democratic leaders received substantial contributions from lobbyists’ spouses. For example, Julie Dempsey, the wife of a registered lobbyist, donated $7,000 to key lawmakers. Other lobbyists’ spouses, such as Kathleen Stefanini and Donna Finneran, also made significant contributions.
While these donations are legal, critics argue that they create a significant influence on legislators and public policy. Lobbyists and their spouses are able to avoid disclosing the negative connotation of their contributions, ultimately strengthening the influence of lobbyists in the political process.
Despite calls to regulate what lobbyists’ spouses can donate, lawmakers like House Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen E. Spilka have no plans to do so, citing concerns about infringing on First Amendment rights. Lobbyists in other states face similar restrictions, but Massachusetts currently lacks specific regulations on lobbyist spouses’ donations.
Overall, the analysis highlights the significant impact that lobbyists’ spouses have on campaign finance in Massachusetts, raising questions about the ethics and transparency of political donations in the state.
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