Gifts and Givers

The state's Fair Political Practices Commission is planning to discuss a proposed rule aimed at preventing elected officials from hiding big-ticket trips footed by companies and nonprofits by routing the money through their government employers. But aside from political reporters and campaign consultants, does anyone check electeds' FPPC filings? People get paid a lot of money to produce the reports already required by FPPC rules and California law - not to mention additional reporting requirements at the federal level. But do these reports actually keep people honest? Does anyone look them up except when they need a club to use on an opponent or disfavored politician?