Bill > SB808

This bill amends Pennsylvania's lobbying disclosure laws by expanding and clarifying several key definitions and regulations related to lobbying and political consulting. The bill introduces new definitions for terms like "affiliate" and "political consultant," broadening the scope of who must register and report their activities. It requires lobbyists, lobbying firms, principals, and political consultants to register electronically with the department within ten days of beginning their activities, and mandates that they disclose additional information such as the names of their affiliates. The bill establishes new rules around conflicts of interest, prohibiting lobbyists or political consultants from representing clients with directly adverse interests without proper disclosure and consent. It also creates restrictions on political consultants, such as prohibiting them from providing consulting services while registered as a lobbyist or principal, and preventing them from lobbying an official for whom they have previously provided consulting services during that official's elected term. The legislation introduces more stringent reporting requirements, increases transparency by requiring more information to be published online, and provides the commission with expanded authority to investigate and penalize violations. Notably, the bill includes special provisions for attorneys who are lobbyists, ensuring that their disciplinary actions are consistent with professional conduct rules. Most provisions of the bill will take effect 60 days after passage, with some specific provisions having different effective dates.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=808