A new report says special interests spent a record-high 16-point-7 Million dollars last year on lobbyists, gifts, travel and other efforts to influence elected Nebraska officials.

Common Cause Nebraska spokesman Jack Gould says money gives lobbyists an advantage over average citizens. . .

The Common Cause reports discloses the biggest spenders at the Capitol are the League of Nebraska Municipalities; Altria Client Services, the corporate parent of tobacco company Philip Morris; and the group Renewable Fuels Nebraska.

Gould says the money spent by lobbyists give them a big advantage over the average citizen when talking about legislation with lawmakers. . .

Gould says Common Cause is encouraging legislation that could limit gift giving, entertainment, and other freebies.