Tester proposal would ban retired members from lobbying Congress forever

WASHINGTON – A Montana lawmaker wants to end a long-running practice that fuels mistrust of the federal government.

After retiring from office or losing re-election, many congressional lawmakers – Republicans and Democrats alike – launch lucrative careers as lobbyists at law firms, lobbying shops, business and trade organizations and other well-heeled interest groups, many of which are located on the infamous K Street.

Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., introduced a bill this month to ban that. The bill, which he introduced along with Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., would prevent former members from lobbying Congress. Permanently.

Read more: www.greatfallstribune.com/story/news/local/2014/06/06/tester-proposal-ban-retired-members-lobbying-congress-forever/10105095/