Lobbyists gave California lawmakers a getaway during budget talks

The L.A. Times reports:

In the midst of intense state budget negotiations, Democratic lawmakers stole away to an elegant wine-country lodge where the gourmet meals, rooms and cocktails were provided by a trio of interests with much at stake in the Capitol.

Soon after the trial lawyers and the unions representing firefighters and carpenters covered the $14,000 tab, their agendas advanced in Sacramento.

Lobbying pays off or it wouldn't happen.