TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - Florida lobbyists are making more money
now.
      An analysis of year-end reports filed this week showed lobbyists
were paid at least $127 million during 2011 to influence the
Florida Legislature.
      That's a steep jump from last year and the highest amount in the
last five years.
      One prominent lobbyist said the increased amount of money was a
sign of economic recovery, but also acknowledged that a high-stakes
battle over casinos probably led to increased amounts of spending
on lobbyists.
      Those who spent large sums include telecommunications giant AT&T
which spent at least $1.68 million on legislative lobbyists. Casino
operators Las Vegas Sands and Genting also reported spending large
amounts on hired lobbyists as well.
      Local governments also spent tens of thousands of dollars to
hire outside lobbyists.
     

     
      (Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)