Bill would punish lobbyists who lie

State legislators still want to punish lobbyists who lie.

The Senate Government Committee on Thursday unanimously voted to impose stiff penalties on registered lobbyists who knowingly provide false information to lawmakers and other public officials.

Similar bills didn’t get far in the legislative process the past two years.

Violators could be prohibited from acting as a lobbyist for three years and made to pay a civil penalty equal to what they’re paid by their client.

Democratic Sen. Debbie McCune Davis of Phoenix says her bill would help protect the integrity of the legislative process. According to McCune Davis, lies told during legislative testimony would be easiest to prosecute because those hearings are televised.