WASHINGTON — The Senate voted Wednesday to impose new rules to rein in the clout wielded by lobbyists on Capitol Hill, but critics charged the measure would fall short of significantly curbing the influence peddling.
The bill, which passed 90 to 8, aims to eliminate some of the more high-profile connections between lobbyists and lawmakers. It would end the common practice of lobbyists buying meals for senators or providing gifts -- such as tickets to sporting events -- that many lawmakers said fed the public perception that Congress was swayed by these favors.
"What we're saying here is that there's a sign that now is up in front of the Capitol," said Sen. Christopher J. Dodd (D-Conn.), one of the bill's co-authors. "It says: 'Not for Sale.' "
The measure also would for the first time enable senators to challenge funding of some special projects often tucked into bills at the behest of lobbyists. Still, many of these so-called earmarks that are attached each year to spending bills would remain exempt from challenge.
Other changes would require lobbyists to more frequently report their dealings with lawmakers and their contributions to their campaigns, filing the information to a database searchable online by the public.
Also, former members of Congress and senior aides would have to wait two years instead of one before lobbying their onetime colleagues. And senators could no longer put a secret "hold" on legislation or nominations, a behind-the-scenes move that blocks action on such matters.
Senators who pushed for more sweeping changes said the measure would leave much of lobbyists' power intact. For instance, the bill contains no limits on lobbyists' ability to rely on their contacts and clients to generate large campaign contributions.
Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who voted against the bill, said that although some lawmakers viewed the bill's passage as "a major feat," he considered its provisions "very, very weak."
McCain spoke after votes were blocked on amendments he offered, including one that would have required senators to pay charter rates when they traveled on corporate jets. The lawmakers usually pay much less.
Others complained that the bill would not ban lawmakers' travel paid for by private groups and would not create an independent office of public integrity to investigate senators or staffers accused of unethical conduct.
"What ethics bill?" Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) said of the measure, which he opposed.
