Houston Chronicle

WASHINGTON - Trying to jump-start the languishing drive for new ethics rules, House Republican leaders unveiled proposals Wednesday that include a ban on privately funded travel for lawmakers through this year.

The proposal would direct the House ethics committee, which has been largely paralyzed by partisan disputes, to come up with long-term travel rules by December.

The GOP plan would require more frequent and detailed financial disclosures by lobbyists, who would have to provide details of meals and gifts for lawmakers.

However, the legislation would not be expected to reduce the $50 value limit on gifts lawmakers can accept, up to a $100 annual maximum from any individual.

"We feel very strongly about the need to bring about bold, strong reforms," said Rep. David Dreier, R-Calif., who was tapped by Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., to devise a lobbying package.

The House version includes a limit of about $27,000 on individual giving to advocacy groups called 527s, which were active in promoting political causes during the 2004 presidential campaign.

Republicans think Democrats have benefited more from 527s, which have escaped contribution limits. In the 2004 election cycle, liberal businessman George Soros gave $23 million to 527s critical of President Bush and Republicans.

But conservative 527s also have been funded by Republicans, such as Houston homebuilder Bob Perry. He gave $8 million in 2004 to advocacy groups such as Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, which criticized presidential candidate John Kerry's military credentials.

The move to crack down on some lobbying practices was prompted by the abuses of Jack Abramoff, who pleaded guilty to corruption charges. He was accused of bilking Indian tribes of millions and indirectly using their money to provide lavish perks and travel for lawmakers.

The travel included a trip arranged by Abramoff in 2000 with then-Majority Leader Rep. Tom DeLay, R-Sugar Land, to England and Scotland that included a golf outing at the prestigious St. Andrew's course.

GOP leaders were quick to promise lobbying reform after Abramoff pleaded guilty in January. Lawmakers also pressed DeLay to permanently relinquish his post as majority leader, in part because of his close ties to Abramoff.

But many lawmakers balked at some of the proposed restrictions, such as curbs on privately funded travel.

While calling some of the proposed changes merely cosmetic, Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Austin, said lobbying reform nevertheless may be needed "to restore the faith (in government) on the part of the American people."

McCaul, whose district includes much of west Harris County, said he already disallows privately funded travel for himself and his staff.

DeLay "supports increased transparency, but he is still studying the details," spokesman Michael Connolly said.

The Senate has postponed consideration of lobbying reform until it finishes with budget and immigration legislation.

Melanie Sloan, executive director of the watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, criticized the House proposal for lacking effective means for policing lobbying abuses.