Bill > HF2284

This bill modifies several definitions and reporting requirements related to lobbying and public officials in Minnesota. It expands the definition of a "lobbyist" to include more specific criteria about who must register as a lobbyist, including those engaged in government relations services or spending significant personal funds to influence official actions. The bill introduces a new definition for "expert witness" as someone providing specialized testimony based on their professional expertise. It broadens the definition of "metropolitan governmental unit" to include additional entities like the Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission and the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority. The legislation also updates requirements for lobbyists to report more detailed information about their lobbying activities, including specific subjects of interest and expert witnesses they request to communicate with public officials. Additionally, the bill expands the categories of local officials who must file statements of economic interest, now including soil and water conservation district supervisors, watershed district managers, and officials from political subdivisions with populations over 50,000. These changes aim to increase transparency in governmental interactions and potential conflicts of interest by requiring more comprehensive disclosure from public and local officials.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2284&ssn=0&y=2025