Fine line when lobbyists, lawmakers mingle

WASHINGTON -- On a recent cool, spring day, lobbyists, members of Congress and outdoor industry representatives donned hunting vests and headed to a shooting range in the suburbs of the nation's capital.

The occasion: The annual "congressional shootout" to benefit a foundation tied to the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus.

The invitation-only competition, which pitted Democrats against Republicans in skeet and clay-target shooting, is one of the myriad gatherings congressional caucuses and the not-for-profit groups connected to them have staged or will stage this year that give lobbyists and lawmakers another opportunity to interact.

Others include a four-day conference next month in Tunica, Miss., organized by the Congressional Black Caucus Political Education and Leadership Institute. The agenda includes policy forums, a golf outing, and a concert by hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash. A recent Congressional Black Caucus Foundation event included a golf and tennis tournament at a Virginia resort and spa.

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, meanwhile, is planning its conference in September. Sponsors can underwrite private receptions, luncheons and comedy performances, ranging from $2,500 to $250,000.

"These corporations and lobbyists lavish favor on elected officials so they can come back later on and get access," said Bob Edgar, a former Democratic congressman from Pennsylvania who is president of the watchdog group Common Cause.

Under ethics rules passed in 2007, lobbyists must report their contributions to non-profits connected to federal lawmakers twice a year. Spending in the first half of 2009 won't become public until later this month, but interviews show the donations have continued to pour in.

The Nuclear Energy Institute, for instance, is among the sponsors of the Tunica gathering, planned for Aug. 13-16.

The event is organized by Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., a member of the Congressional Black Caucus and chairman of its leadership institute, a non-profit that helps blacks get elected.