We’re all familiar with the idea that very wealthy people buy themselves access to power with presidents and members of Congress. There’s a good reason for that; the blatant corruption of the U.S. political system has become more visible than ever in recent years, and the ways in which money can equal access and influence are on display for all to see.

However, money can also be used to gain influence–or exclude people and groups from participating in aspects of the political process–in more subtle ways, at both the federal and state levels. In my most recent piece for Columbia Insight, I explore whether this may be happening in the ongoing controversy over logging of older forests in Washington State.

Has Washington’s DNR effectively tried to shut down lawsuits against logging by demanding small nonprofits put up monetary bond they can’t afford? You decide for yourself after reading the piece here. Either way, it’s worth seriously considering how money shapes who can access lawmakers, press lawsuits, and participate in other aspects of the political process–and who can’t.