TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Lobbyists in Kansas would be required to report payments they receive from government agencies to finance efforts to influence state officials under a bill approved by a legislative committee. The Senate Ethics and Elections Committee endorsed the measure on a voice vote Wednesday. It goes next to the full Senate for debate. The bill would require lobbyists to disclose the taxpayer funds they receive from cities, counties, school districts and other government agencies in reports they file with the secretary of state's office. Lobbyists now report what they spend on meals, drinks and small gifts for state officials and on media advertising or other campaigns to influence state decisions. No one spoke against the measure. Committee Chairman and St. John Republican Mitch Holmes said it would promote transparency.
