The Rhode Island Senate established regulations for anyone lobbying the executive branch of state government.
Under a bill sponsored by Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Paiva Weed, D-Newport, those who lobby the executive branch or any public corporations must comply to regulations similar to those of legislative lobbyists.
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These rules include registering with the Secretary of State and providing a financial report of all compensation paid to the lobbyists. This includes “the total amount expended for lobbying purposes and an itemization of any expenditure, gift or honorarium of $25 or more.”
The legislation gives the Secretary of State the authority to implement the provisions of the legislation and to investigate and pursue any violations. Fines can range up to $5,000 for a criminal penalty and $1,000 for an administrative penalty.
“This legislation is aimed at ensuring accountability and transparency in state government, particularly at a time when more complete separation of powers is being established,” Paiva Weed said.
Approved earlier in the week by the House, the bill goes to the governor for his consideration.
