This Thursday, the Senate Committee on Government Operations and Consumer Protection will hold a public hearing on SB423, a bill that would prohibit former legislators from lobbying the Legislature for a period of twelve months. The bill, commonly referred to as the “revolving door” bill, is co-authored by state Reps. Dana Wachs (D-Eau Claire), Jim Ott (R-Mequon), and Ed Brooks (R-Reedsburg)

“At least 33 states have enacted legislation to close the revolving door between the legislature and lobbying firms, and it’s time for Wisconsin to step up to the plate and do the same,” said Brooks. “Wisconsin already imposes a one year lobbying moratorium on other state public officials, but current law exempts legislators and certain legislative staff. That’s wrong-headed.”

Although the bill has circulated in the legislature in previous sessions, Brooks believes that passage could finally be a reality this session.

“I won’t give up on an idea whose time has come, even if some others haven’t seen it yet,” he said. “Earlier this session, the legislature passed the anti-steering bill that I’ve worked on for several sessions. It’s worth the extra work to see that good legislation gets passed.”