Pa. Lawmakers' 'Reform Caucus' Touts Proposed Gift Limits

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The "reform caucus" in the Pennsylvania Legislature is pushing to rein in gifts and other freebies in an institution that doesn't currently limit them.

The group on Monday outlined legislation that would bar public officials and employees from accepting transportation, lodging, hospitality or anything of economic value from people trying to influence legislation.

The caucus also says it'll endorse legislation if two-thirds of their active members vote for it.

Ethics reports filed more than a month ago show state lawmakers and other high-ranking state officials took more than $160,000 in freebies last year. About half involved donations for constituent events.

Pennsylvania requires public officials to report gifts worth more than $250, and when meals, hospitality or travel from a single source amount to at least $650 in a year.