PITTSBURGH -- Leslie Merrill McCombs e-mailed the following statement to WTAE Channel 4 Action News on Thursday afternoon.
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I am the Senior Consultant for Government Relations at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Some time ago, Lionsgate and the Pittsburgh Film Office asked me to assist them in them in their efforts to produce a television series in Pittsburgh, as well as to help the industry receive appropriate tax treatment from the Commonwealth. There is a considerable difference between "lobbying" and consulting or helping a company with limited contacts in a new city. I was able to assist the Film Office with several issues before Lionsgate came to Pittsburgh, including location scouting, introductions to county and city officials, etc.all done with the consent of my employer.

While I was already a registered lobbyist, I should have amended my filings to list Lionsgate as a client. I know that now, but I didn't at that time. I've since amended my filings with the Commonwealth. The Department of State sent my latest lobbying registration form back to me, and told me I am in full compliance with the law.

I am a friend and supporter of Governor Rendell's. I spoke to him about the film industry legislation, of which he had been a proponent long before I worked with Lionsgate.

The recently passed film legislation has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars for the film and television industry thus far, and I'm thrilled to be a part of the positive economic impact for the Commonwealth.

My technical and brief noncompliance in amending my registration is being leveraged by some for political reasons. This is a flimsy nonissue. A press release was issued on September 5, the intent of which was to explore my "relationship" with the Governor. The pledge was made to hire a private investigator to probe that relationship. Clearly, it is being suggested that I have an inappropriate relationship with the Governor. That suggestion is disgusting and insulting, and I am appalled that an elected public official can get away with such slanderous behavior. It is deeply hurtful to me and my family.

Additionally, it has been pointed out that I am a fund raiser for the Governor. My husband and I are committed supporters, and that will never change. Interestingly, I have been a fund raiser for several other political leaders, both Democrats and Republicans alike. I firmly believe in supporting the outstanding leadership of the decision makers who affect my family's lives. I'm fortunate to be in the position of giving back to the community in which I live ... of being an integral part in the revitalization of this amazing city.