The Istook amendment, which would severely limit federal grantees'
ability to conduct broadly-defined "advocacy activities," was withdrawn
from consideration for attachment to the lobby reform bill.

By the time the bill came to the House floor, members didn't want to
adopt *any* amendments, because amendments would have necessitated a
conference with the Senate -- causing delay and perhaps death for lobby
reform.  Those who consider reform a high priority thus opposed any
amendments, even ones that they would have otherwise favored.  Facing
certain defeat, Istook and McIntosh withdrew their proposals, and the
reform bill was passed by a vote of 421 to 0.

They may resurface on another bill, of course, but that appears to be
less likely all the time.

Contact me if you have any questions.

IMPORTANT NEWS FOR DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS

Congress approved (about five minutes ago) HR 2519 and HR 2525 -- by
unanimous votes in the House last night and by voice in the Senate
just now.  These bills retroactively remove the cause for action in the
Texas antitrust lawsuit dealing with charitable gift annuities.  Major
good news, if you offer annuities!

Andy Finch
AAM Government Affairs
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