Lobbyists in the nation's capitol re already figuring out ways to get around "reforms" being considered in Congress, The Washington Post reports.

Members of both parties called for reforms in the wake of the Jack Abramoff scandal. But with legislation on the backburner, top lobbyists say they expect any changes to be minor inconveniences.

The Senate, for example, has barred lawmakers from accepting meals and gifts from registered lobbyists. But someone who works for a lobbying firm but isn't registered as a lobbyist could still pick up the tab for dinner, one lobbyist said.

Grassroots organizations, a $1 billion lobbying industry, won't be covered by any reforms either although they may be required to disclose more about their activities. Grover Norquist's Americans for Tax Reform, for example, invites donors who give more than $15,000 a year to special receptions and dinners featuring Republican lawmakers.

Get the Story:
Lobbyists Foresee Business As Usual (The Washington Post 3/19)
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Senate Lobbying Reform Bill:
Legislative Transparency and Accountability Act of 2006 (S.2349) | Section-by-Section Summary

Other Lobbying Reform Bills:
Sen. McCain: Lobbying Transparency and Accountability Act of 2005 (S.2128) | Sen. McCain: Reducing Conflicts of Interests in the Representation of Indian Tribes Act of 2005 (S.1312)

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