Originally Posted by raytri

Here's a link to the full article for nonsubscribers:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB1216...googlenews_wsj

It's partly an attempt to skirt the rules, but it's also partly an effort to address what would have been pretty complex reporting and tracking requirements for lobbyists.

In general, though, this isn't good. Ethics rules should be simple, straightforward and tough. I don't like the practice of establishing rules with loud fanfare, then slowly sliding away from them with later, quiet guidance.

Though it's worth noting that the Dems' ethics rules are *still* stricter than what the GOP had in place.