"The worst economy since the Great Depression has largely spared Washington's business lobbyists, according to a new survey by the Public Affairs Council, which represents more than 550 corporations and trade associations," CQ Weekly reported.   

The story notes that the Council surveyed about 80 of the companies and found that nearly three-quarters maintained or boosted their federal government relations and lobbying budgets from 2006 to 2009. Most also held staffing levels steady or hired more.

"Over time, the government affairs functions are becoming more insulated from the economy because of the realization that there is real cost associated with not being in Washington," Council President Doug Pinkham told CQ Weekly.