The Democratic leadership in the State House confirms that the Special Session is special in more ways than one. Two days ago Speaker Naifeh was chiding committee members for not voting fast enough (his wife must have been eager to see whether or not she would be able to host lobbying events at the Naifeh residence). Now voice votes without opposition are watering down real reform It’s a farce

The legislators are crafting new laws during a special session in response to last year’s Operation Tennessee Waltz bribery sting, which resulted in arrests of state lawmakers by federal agents.

But the proposals have become less restrictive by the day.

House members yesterday voted to free up lobbyists so that they can host campaign fundraisers for elected officials as long as the event is not held at the lobbyists’ home or office.

And, under another change approved yesterday, lobbyists would not have to file disclosure forms saying which legislation they are trying to influence.

The changes were approved in a voice vote in the House Budget Subcommittee. No one voted against the changes, which were grouped into one amendment.

Brian Kelsey (R-Germantown), an outstanding guy and the type of person we need and want in state government, is giving back his per diem. Nothing substantive is getting done. I don’t blame him. A relatively strong showing of reform was made, regulations were pulled back, and the final result will be an inch of difference from where we started. The People of Tennessee deserve better. There will be no incumbents in this year’s state elections.