By: Bryan P. Sears Daily Record Government Reporter January 18, 2021
The Maryland State House. (File photo)
Ten lobbyists reported billings of more than $15 million, a slight increase over 2019 according to reports filed with the Maryland State Ethics Commission released in December.
The combined reports for those top billing lobbyists none of whom are strangers to the top of the list represent nearly $3 in every $10 spent on lobbyists who reported billings of $50,000 or more and more than 27% of all billings reported by 563 people who reported any lobbying-related fees at all.
Overall, 173 people, one less than last year, reported client fees of $50,000 or more for a combined $50.8 million for the period of Nov. 1 2019 through Oct. 31 2020. The total amount represents an increase of more than $1 million compared to last year.
12 of our top columns this week: ICYMI
From Biden s Defense pick, to COVID, emotional support animals, and Trump s potential self-pardon, here are some of our top columns you may have missed.
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In today s fast-paced news environment, it can be hard to keep up. For your weekend reading, we ve started in-case-you-missed-it compilations of some of the week s top USA TODAY Opinion pieces. As always, thanks for reading, and for your feedback. USA TODAY Opinion editors
By Nicole Carroll Many said they believe the virus is real but are worried about their jobs and their bills and how shutdowns have been handled inconsistently. Others are angry at politicians who plead for people to stay home but then get spotted at events. They don t deny the severity of the virus, they are frustrated with the country s response.