Bill > S1505

This bill amends Section 5(e) of Chapter 268A, which deals with state ethics laws, by replacing the existing text with new language. The core change is to clarify and expand the definition of who is considered a "former state employee or elected official" subject to restrictions on lobbying or acting as an agent for outside entities. Specifically, it now explicitly includes former members of the general court (state legislature), the governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, state auditor, attorney general, treasurer, and appointed executive branch commissioners and cabinet-level secretaries. These individuals are prohibited from acting as a legislative or executive agent, meaning they cannot lobby or represent someone other than the Commonwealth or a state agency, before the governmental body they were previously associated with, for a period of three years after leaving their position. This provision aims to prevent former officials from using their past connections and knowledge for private gain shortly after leaving public service.