State Politicians Got Free Lakers Playoff Tickets from NFL Stadium Developer

In the latest round of lobbying firm disclosures filed to the state, records show that California lawmakers as usual accepts gifts from various corporate entities, according to the LA Times. Of note is the more than $1,400 in basketball tickets given to politicians who helped push through the NFL stadium proposal for the city of Industry. Disney gave thousands of dollars worth of tickets to Iron Man 2 and Toy Story 3 to legislators. Various other companies wined and dined lawmakers. The gifts are legal, but some think they help persuade politicians to vote a certain way when their issue comes up. "There is no good reason to allow these gifts, and the practice should be banned," said Derek Cressman from Common Cause. He said a proposal to limit gifts to $10 a month never saw the light of day.