Bill > HB1973

This bill prohibits governmental bodies from using state or local funds to hire lobbyists to lobby on their behalf. Specifically, the legislation prevents government entities from entering into contracts with external lobbyists paid through public funds. The bill also extends this prohibition to include paying membership dues to organizations that lobby on behalf of the governmental body, such as paying membership fees to an association that employs lobbyists to represent the government's interests. However, the bill does not prevent governmental bodies from directly employing their own staff members (including registered lobbyists) to conduct lobbying activities. The goal of this legislation appears to be reducing indirect spending of public funds on lobbying efforts and increasing transparency in how government entities seek to influence policy. By restricting the use of state and local funds for external lobbying contracts, the bill aims to limit potential conflicts of interest and ensure more direct accountability in governmental advocacy efforts.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1973&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R