Lobbyist to lawmaker: 'See you at McDonald's - maybe.'

Minnesota and Mississippi, separated by miles, geography, climate and custom, are similar to each other in one respect: They've put more strings on lobbying activities this session.

New ethics legislation prohibits North Star State lawmakers from taking gifts of any kind--but lobbyists must report any expenditure over $5. The reporting measure is designed to detail gratuities given under exemptions to the no-gifts law, according to Senate Counsel Peter Wattson.

"All gifts, including campaign contributions, are prohibited with limited exceptions," he said. Campaign limits are $100 in a nonelection year and increase to $500 in an election year. Exemptions to the no-gifts rule also include plaques and mementos of "insignificant value" as well as food and beverage provided to lawmakers who are panelists or speakers at specific events.

Down south in the Magnolia State, Mississippi lawmakers passed one of the "toughest lobbying reporting laws in the nation," according to a state newspaper. Lobbyists must register and report anything of value given to public officials including meals, event tickets, trips and other benefits.

The new law allows lobbyists to spend only $10 per legislator per year before the reporting requirement...