How to buy influence: the ex-Senator version

John B. Breaux is the former Democratic senator from Louisiana who left that august body in 2005 after not seeking re-election in 2004. But he lingers on. Or, rather, his money and its influence lingers on.

Read on. Dessert’s at the end.

A better FOI law ahead for New York state?

New York’s state Legislature, not necessarily known as a benefactor of John and Jane Q. Public, has done something right for a change. Both chambers have passed a bill that would strengthen the state’s freedom of information law.

If you’re looking for a public document that reveals a no-bid sweetheart contract or an underhanded, devious land deal, the state FOI law — assuming Gov. Pataki signs the bill into law — would penalize government officials who put roadblocks in your path.

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