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Bill

SB 808

An Act amending Title 65 (Public Officers) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in lobbying disclosure, further providing for definitions, for registration, for exemption from registration and reporting, for prohibited activities, for administration and for penalties; and making an editorial change.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Baker and 4 co-sponsors

SB 808 modifies Pennsylvania's lobbying disclosure rules governing registration, reporting, exemptions, and penalties to reshape transparency and compliance requirements.

Referred to State Government
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 808

Legislative bill overview

SB 808 amends Pennsylvania's lobbying disclosure laws under Title 65 (Public Officers) to modify how lobbyists must register and report their activities. The bill updates definitions, registration requirements, exemptions, prohibited activities, administrative procedures, and penalties related to lobbying disclosure.

Why is this important

Lobbying disclosure laws are foundational transparency mechanisms that allow the public and policymakers to understand who is trying to influence legislation and on whose behalf. Changes to these rules can either strengthen accountability or reduce regulatory burden on advocacy groups, depending on the specific amendments included in the bill.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of exemptions: Expanding or narrowing which organizations must register as lobbyists could shift who faces disclosure requirements
  • Definition changes: Modifications to what constitutes "lobbying" could affect grassroots organizations, trade associations, and professional advocates differently
  • Administrative burden vs. transparency: Stricter reporting requirements increase transparency but impose compliance costs; looser requirements reduce burden but may obscure influence
  • Penalty structure: Changes to enforcement penalties could impact compliance incentives across the lobbying industry

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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