Lobbying transparency needed

As Rhode Island enters a new era of economic growth, it is important for the business community to have the confidence that’s needed to invest in our state. Businesses are attracted to places where the rules are clear and fair. This begins with state government providing transparency for lobbying. That’s why I am pleased that Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea has recently introduced legislation that will clarify, streamline and strengthen our state’s lobbying statutes.

Current lobbying laws have multiple definitions of lobbying and lobbyists, as well as convoluted reporting requirements, leading to confusion regarding compliance and oversight.

Gorbea and legislative sponsors have introduced legislation that significantly clarifies the existing statutes to make it easier to do business in Rhode Island. For example, a business owner who is representing his or her own company’s interests at a legislative hearing or at an executive agency meeting will not be considered a lobbyist if that person’s regular duties do not include lobbying or government relations. However, if the business owner hires an attorney or consultant to lobby a proposal, that company’s lobbyist needs to register that relationship, and the contract’s value, with the state within seven days.

This makes it clear who is being paid to advocate or is an engaged representative of another person.

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Gorbea’s proposal gives government the ability to enforce the requirements of the statute using a variety of tools, including administrative subpoena power.

The oversight provisions in the lobbying reform bill will help deter malicious behavior and ensure that Rhode Island’s lobbying laws will be taken seriously. Without it, our lobbying laws are little more than suggestions.

Our business community, our advocates and our citizens are looking forward to easy-to-follow rules that are enforced. This encourages investor and public confidence. This is critically important for economic development and for the well-being of our state. This bill will give businesses a renewed confidence in our government’s decision-making process and, in turn, help spur investment and growth. •

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