Local Lobbying

Facts

As of April 1, 2002, registration and reporting are requirements for anyone engaged in lobbying before a municipality or subdivistion thereof in New York State.

In 2006, the lobbying threshold increased from $2,000 to $5,000. Any lobbyist who reasonably anticipates exceeding $5,000 per biennial period for reportable compensation and expenses must register with the Commission on Public Integrity.

Clients who expend more than $5,000 of combined reportable compensation and expenses in any calendar year are requried to file semi-annual reports.

Any municipality exceeding a population of over 50,000 is covered under the Lobby Act, and requires public disclosure of any activity intended to influence the passage or defeat of any local law, ordinance or regulation.

What is Lobbying?

Lobbying or Lobbying Activities is defined as any attempt to influence the passage or defeat of any local law, ordinance, resolution or regulation. As of 2006, lobbying also means attempts to influence any determination.

What if I need to register?

Lobbyist Requirements include:

Biennial Statement of Registration
$200 Registration fee ($100 prorated for the second year of a two year period.)
All applicable bi-monthly reports.

Lobbyist Reporting Requirements:

Topics Covered:

Biennial Statement of Registration
Filing all necessary bi-monthly reports
Due dates for filings
Exemptions
Introduction to on-line filing
Lobbyist/Client termination responsibilites

Listing of Counties with a population over 50,000 that fall under the jurisdiction of the Lobby Act.