Tougher Rules Change Game for Lobbyists

From The New York Times:

[Last week Congress passed far-reaching ethics and lobbying rules] lobbyists are calling the new “temptation rules.” Not only do they bar lawmakers and aides from accepting any gifts, meals or trips from lobbyists, they also impose penalties up to $200,000 and five years in prison on any lobbyist who provides such freebies.

The new law has quickly sent a ripple of fear through K Street. It comes amid signs that federal prosecutors are taking a newly aggressive approach to corruption cases — including treating campaign contributions as potential bribes.

President Bush has not said whether he would sign the bill . . . .