Terry McAuliffe, one of three Democratic candidates for governor, today called for a complete ban on lobbyists' gifts -- such as trips and meals -- to Virginia lawmakers or members of the executive branch.
McAuliffe made the proposal as part of a plan "to strengthen transparency and accountability" in state government and the private sector.
In a conference call with reporters, McAuliffe said he wants to "encourage a culture of accountability" and that "state government should lead the way."
McAuliffe, former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, also proposed:
- a state-run "sunshine Web site" that would bring together information on campaign contributions to lawmakers and legislation lawmakers sponsor
- Making sure that the state budget -- which already is online -- is in a searchable format. The current format "is not very user-friendly," McAuliffe said.
- Establishing a searchable online data base of government contracts
McAuliffe, former Del. Brian J. Moran of Alexandria and state Sen. R. Creigh Deeds of Bath County are vying for the Democratic nomination in a June 9 primary. Bob McDonnell is the all-but-certain Republican nominee.
-- Andrew Cain
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