Are StudentsFirst and other “Education Reform” groups under investigation for Ethics Violations?
by jonpelto
Astroturf lobbying refers to political organizations or campaigns that appear to be made up of grassroots activists but are actually organized and run by corporate interests seeking to further their own agendas. Such groups are often typified by innocent-sounding names that have been chosen specifically to disguise the group's true backers
It’s a very valid question.
It certainly appeared that StudentsFirst, Excel Brideport, Teach for America – Connecticut Chapter and other groups pushing Governor Malloy’s “education reform” bill engaged in lobbying activities that were not properly reported to the Office of State Ethics. If they did engage in those activities they could face significant penalties and fines for breaking Connecticut law.
The problem with answering the question is that there is a state law the exempts ethics complaints from Connecticut’s Freedom of Information law and sets up a different standard that give extensive protection to any group or person who is being charged with an ethics violation.
Innocent until proven guilty is the hallmark of our system of justice, but at least in criminal
Other Astroturf lobbying groups like Stand ON Children First
Just Like Michelle Rhee's Students first only BETTER©
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