Bill > HB1384

This bill amends the Lobbyist Registration Act to expand the definition of "official" and clarify the scope of lobbying activities at the local government level. Specifically, the bill adds a tenth category to the definition of "official" to include other local government officials with substantial discretion to take or recommend official actions, such as municipal managers and attorneys. The bill also provides more detailed examples of what constitutes lobbying, including actions related to zoning, legislation, contract specifications, grant awards, procurement, and other governmental processes. Importantly, the bill clarifies that submitting a permit application or responding to a government request for proposals does not automatically constitute lobbying. The definition of "lobbyist" is broadened to explicitly include any natural person who attempts to influence executive, legislative, or administrative actions on behalf of another person or as part of their employment duties, with specific examples like attorneys, accountants, and consultants. The bill aims to provide more comprehensive and clear guidelines about what constitutes lobbying activities at both state and local government levels, ensuring greater transparency in governmental interactions.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1384&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104