View expenditures for 2003 - 2008 
 List of lobbyist principals that have not filed 

An annual report tracking how much money organizations spent to lobby Minnesota lawmakers is out.

The Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board released the report Monday.

It shows more than 1,200 lobbying organizations spent more than $60,750,000 in 2008. That's down slightly from 2007 when expenditures were $61,483,428.

Groups must report what they spend on efforts in influence legislation, new state rules or cit government actions. That includes any payments to lobbyists and all expenditures related to lobbying including advertising, mailing, research and more.

According to the report, the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce spent $1.8 million in 2008. That amount is more than any other group and double the amount spent by number two on the list: Xcel Energy which spent more than $936,000.

Otter Tail Power Co, Flint Hills Resources LP, Southwest Casino & Hotel Corp, Minnesota Business Partnership Inc, Mall of America, League of Minnesota Cities, Enbridge Energy Partners LP and Minnesota School Boards Association rounded out the top ten biggest spenders.

The Minnesota Vikings and Northwest Airlines were 25 and 26 on the list. Each spent $340,000.

About 29 organizations have yet to file 2008 lobbyist reports.