Spending on Texas lobbyists rises 15 percent
© 2008 The Associated Press
Sept. 10, 2008
AUSTIN — Texas lobbyists, representing clients ranging from energy companies to farmers, raked in up to $348 million in 2007, a 15 percent jump from the previous year, according to a new report.
Texans for Public Justice, a liberal watchdog group, reported that 1,629 lobbyists got more than 8,000 paid contracts to represent some 2,706 clients. The amount of the contracts, which are given to the Texas Ethics Commission in ranges, was valued at a minimum of $175 million and a maximum of $348 million.
Companies involved in energy and natural resources spent the most on Texas lobbyists, who represent their interests before the Texas Legislature, the report found.
