Keep reading for today’s look at #OpenGov news, events and analysis including super PAC in the dictionary and scandal in Utah.

National News

• It’s official, super PAC has made its way into the unabridged version of the Merriam-Webster dictionary. (Public Integrity)
• General Motors is in some hot water over a recall scandal and Congress has called them in for hearings next month. At the same time, the GM PAC is reminding members of its deep pockets, giving out $76,000 in February. (Roll Call)
• Alan Mauk, a lobbyist based out of Virginia, is facing more than $5 million in fines for more than 25 violations. He is said to have filed required documents late on a regular basis from 2009 through 2013. (The Hill)

International News

• The American Foreign Service Association sought and received information about President Obama’s recent string of controversial ambassadorial nominees. Now the group wants the White House to release the information to the broader public. (Government Executive)

State and Local News

• California Democrats pushed a bill that would make political nonprofits reveal their donors this election season. The bill failed by one vote. (Washington Times)
• A campaign finance scandal involving dark money groups is roiling Utah politics. Payday lenders funneled hundreds of thousands of dollars to support the campaign of John Swallow, who was eventually elected, but resigned in disgrace after less than a year. (New York Times)

Events Today 3/19

• It’s Sunshine Week! Check out the calendar for a comprehensive roundup of all this week’s related events.
• The Future of FOIA: Moving the Freedom of Information Act into the 21st century. The Advisory Committee on Transparency. Wed. 3/19. 2:00 – 3:30 pm. 2203 Rayburn House Office Building.

Events Tomorrow 3/20

• National Security Whistleblower Panel. AU School of Public Affairs. Thurs. 3/20. 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm. 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC.
• The Unknown Known. Private Pre-release Screening. Sunlight Foundation and Project on Government Oversight. Thurs. 3/20. 6:30 – 9:00 pm. E Street Cinema, 555 11th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004.  

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