No more free lunch: Washington sets limits on how often lobbyists can ply lawmakers

The Washington Post: Lobbyists in Olympia, Wash., used to be able to buy lawmakers lunch all the time. Now, the state ethics panel is putting the brakes on just how often lawmakers can dine on someone else’s tab.

The state Legislative Ethics Board voted 9-0 on Tuesday to limit lawmakers to 12 free meals paid for by lobbyists each year. The rules take effect on Jan. 1, in time for the 2015 legislative session. The new rules apply to any breakfast, lunch and dinner paid for by lobbyists during which legislative business is discussed.

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