BG Podcast - Episode 17: Talking Dark Money with BG Advisor Andy Cates, J.D.

Bingham Group CEO A.J. Bingham and BG Advisor Andy Cates discuss dark money, funds given to nonprofit organizations, including 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) groups, that can receive unlimited donations from corporations, individuals and unions. The issue of dark money is a current topic of interest at Austin’s City Hall, related to the November 6th bond election. In particular, Proposition K. The measure would require the city of Austin to hire an outside firm to do an “efficiency study” of the city’s operations and finances. The city already has its own internal auditing office and uses outside auditors, as well. This measure calls for a brand-new audit — done by someone the city does not currently work with. It is alleged by city officials that the political action committee behind Proposition K might have broken local campaign finance laws by shielding the identities of its donors, according to city officials. About Andy: Andy is a legal expert in Texas campaign finance and lobby laws, nonprofit management, and political fundraising & advertising law. He is available to present and discuss the City of Austin's current lobbying ordinance in particular to its impact on land use professionals (planners, engineers, architects, and designers, etc.).   Learn more about Andy at: https://www.texasethicslaws.com/ Contact him at: [email protected]