TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Top Florida Republican officials have enjoyed repeated hunting trips to South Texas’ historic King ranch thanks to the Sunshine State’s sugar industry, but they aren’t talking much about them.
The Tampa Bay Times reported Saturday records show the trips were financed all or in part by the Florida sugar industry (http://bit.ly/1nDD1Y2).
Lawmakers can’t accept free meals, drinks and trips from donors, but a loophole allows parties and political committees to do so. They can then pass on these gifts without detailing who gives or receives them — as long as the donation can be considered for a “campaign purpose.”
The Times says the lack of disclosure means officials and sugar lobbyists can avoid scrutiny about dealings on a host of important issues like agriculture policy, water pollution and Everglades protection.
