HB 4317

Abstract

Amends the Lobbyist Registration Act. Provides that lobbying is an activity that may be undertaken by non-attorneys. Further provides that the General Assembly declares that lobbying records should generally be available to the public, and work records related to lobbying are not shielded by the attorney-client privilege solely because the lobbyist employed by the unit of government is an attorney. Requires units of local government and school districts to register with the Secretary of State if it employs or compensates a lobbyist. Requires every lobbying entity to report billings to clients, which includes the amount billed, the client billed, and the time frame in which services were performed. Provides that lobbying is an activity that may be undertaken by persons without any professional credential, and no professional privileges or immunities shall attach to lobbying work-product solely on the basis that such work was performed by a person with professional credential or credentials. Effective immediately.