Interesting results for the final amounts on lobbying in 2004. The cost of lobbying the Federal government continues to rise and is expected to surpass $2 Billion in 2004. The average was $176 million in spending per month. To view the article, click here

NPR has an interesting discussion about the IRS' investigations of nonprofits for improper electioneering. It is with Diana Aviv of Independent Sector, Rep. Walter Jones (R-NC) and Bruce Hopkins, a tax specialist. Click here to listen!

A new Ohio bill, sure to be signed by Gov. Bob Taft, would force groups that have anonymously financed "issue ads" that resemble political ads to disclose who's financing their efforts and would ban use of corporate and labor cash for such ads within 30 days of an election. It will also increase the amount that would quadruple the amount individuals may give to candidates from $2,500 to $10,000 for each primary and general election and caps the amount candidates may accept from county parties at $250,000. For the full article, check out the Toledo Blade.

In the Scotsman, (a British newspaper) they announced an interesting new internet source - an online database for charities. The new database would offer free listings to charities so that they will be able offer links to their own sites and make use of a variety of features such as a links to grant finders, preferred suppliers, charity shops, company payroll giving, sector news and a regular news letter. Great idea! Here is the link for your reading pleasure!