The state Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board said it would not investigate Sen. Dave Thompson's consulting work with the state GOP, saying the lack of disclosure was perfectly legal under state law, according to a letter from the board released today.
The letter penned by Campaign Finance board executive director Gary Goldsmith clears Thompson, R-Lakeville, and says that the "matter is closed" with regard to a DFL complaint against him.
Goldsmith said consulting work performed by public officials does not have to be reported on personal economic interest reports filed with the board. Open government advocates have decried that the provision is a gaping loophole that leaves the public in the dark by creating a back-channel way for lawmakers to get income and avoid public disclosure.
Goldsmith in his letter to the DFL Chairman Ken Martin said "that disclosure of independent contractor income is not required."
Thompson issued a statement saying the DFL complaint had no basis. Thompson, a lawyer and former radio host, did consulting work for the party from late 2009 through the end of the last year.
"I complied with all disclosure requirements," Thompson said. "Therefore, I am not surprised by the Board's decision. Still, it is gratifying to see a clear statement from Mr. Goldsmith concluding that the Complaint does not even provide a basis for an investigation."
Rep. Ryan Winkler, DFL-Golden Valley, announced a proposal today that would close the consulting loophole. Martin, who filed the complaint against Thompson last week, came out in support of the proposal.
