Ethics Reform

Ethics reform was a top priority for the legislature and the Governor this year. The new law tightens loopholes and establishes greater enforcement penalties.  Specifically, the law restructures ethics rules for public officials, changes lobbyist definitions and restrictions, and alters campaign finance law. The new definition of lobbying will have the greatest impact on JCRC/MAJF, and our partners. The term lobbyist, defined as anyone who is "paid to promote, oppose or influence, or to attempt to influence the decision of any officer or employee of the executive or legislative branch", was broadened to now include planning and preparation. This change is likely to impact non-profits and other advocates who previously did not have to register.  Anyone who is paid for their work, and engages in 20 hours or more of "lobbying" (including research and preparation) over any six month period will be required to register with the Secretary of State. The new ethics rules for public officials increase the penalty and severity of ethics violations, changing them from civil to criminal offenses. The punishment for campaign finance violations was also raised and many loopholes regarding payment and use of campaign funds were closed.

If you have any questions about whether you have to register as a lobbyist, please contact JCRC/MAJF or the Secretary of the Commonwealth.