More hope and change for 'ya
This time it is "
restriction on oral communications"
From
Ed Morrissey at Hot Air:
White House: We�ll cut off criticism of Porkulus
Mark Tapscott notices an interesting blog post by Norman Eisen, who works for Barack Obama as Special Counsel to the President on Ethics and Government Reform. Anticipating a deluge of criticism over the thus-far ineffectual spending plan, Eisen has a straightforward plan to deal with criticism. He�ll simply use the power of the federal government to silence it. Problem solved!�First, we will expand the restriction on oral communications to cover all persons, not just federally registered lobbyists. For the first time, we will reach contacts not only by registered lobbyists but also by unregistered ones, as well as anyone else exerting influence on the process. We concluded this was necessary under the unique circumstances of the stimulus program. [emphasis mine -- Ed]
�Second, we will focus the restriction on oral communications to target the scenario where concerns about merit-based decision-making are greatest �after competitive grant applications are submitted and before awards are made. Once such applications are on file, the competition should be strictly on the merits. To that end, comments (unless initiated by an agency official) must be in writing and will be posted on the Internet for every American to see.
�Third, we will continue to require immediate internet disclosure of all other communications with registered lobbyists. If registered lobbyists have conversations or meetings before an application is filed, a form must be completed and posted to each agency�s website documenting the contact.�
To hell with the
thrill up the leg crap, I am getting concerned about the cold sweat I am breaking out in these days.
I want my Republic back again dammit!
Posted by DaveH at May 31, 2009 3:14 PM