Makes you really want to work for a living

From the Seattle Times:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004097983_mobilisa29.html

In each country, there is a formal measurement of the level of graft required to operate a business. It's articles like this that make you wonder if it (operating above a minimal level of 'graft') has always been like this in the US (one of the better-ranked countries) or if this is part of a trend (direct 'payments' from companies/citizens to government officials) that is accelerating. And if so, in which states is it the most prevalent? Old liners (NY, Mass, Virginia) or new-growth (Utah, Nevada, Florida, Texas) or a mix? Does the frequency of this type of behavior have to do with the regulatory structures in place in each region, state or locality? (Of course human nature is what is, so for the sake of argument, we'll assume that there is a constant percentage x% in every area who will engage in this type of behavior when given the opportunity.)

Transparency is a key factor in fighting this. By making all (and I mean ALL) spending, regulatory and appropriations bills (and any others dealing with funds) available for public review (in an easy-to-access and search format--google?), this problem won't go away, but it would be easier to at a minimum track WHO's funding whom and what is being approved. At a the federal and state level, often times the spending bills are so large and complex that98% of the general public can't and won't wade through them--so make readable, searchable indexes.

It's sad to see that for a small percentage of revenues, a company can effectively buy government contracts. But, it's the way governments work and as a strategic consulting firm, we always have to calculate that in our clients' planning sessions.

And a Happy New Year
-Shawn