FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News from the Coalition to Close Lansing Loopholes
October 18, 2019
Contact: Sam Inglot, 616-916-0574, sam@progressmichigan.org
Investigation of Gravel Lobby Influence Shows Need to Rein in Lobbying
$100,000 MDOT study was pushed by gravel industry, wasted taxpayer money
MICHIGAN — An investigation by the Office of Auditor General found that a 2016 $100,000 study on gravel and sand supplies for road repairs done by the Michigan Department of Transportation was essentially commissioned by and guided by gravel industry lobbyists.
The OAG audit found that the study “does not appear to have been an effective use of the State’s financial resources,” according to MIRS News. Furthermore, the gravel lobby’s influence “may have undermined the Study’s credibility and usefulness to MDOT and policymakers.”
“Clearly, the lobbying culture of Lansing is out of control when industry lobbyists are able to basically tell a state department what to do,” said Lonnie Scott, executive director of Progress Michigan, a leading organization with Close Lansing Loopholes. “We cannot let lobbyists sandbag the people of Michigan from getting sound policy solutions for the problems facing our state. This phony report is being used to push legislation, which means the financial interests of one business sector has an undo influence in policymaking in Michigan.”
The Coalition to Close Lansing Loopholes has announced an effort to reform lobbying laws in Michigan, including more reporting requirements for lobbyists and lawmakers, a cooling off period for lawmakers to become lobbyists, and the banning of gifts from lobbyists to lawmakers.
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