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Bill

S 7681

Prohibits a state or local authority from employing or designating a lobbyist to engage in lobbying

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Leroy Comrie

Bill S 7681 prohibits state and local authorities from hiring lobbyists, aiming to reduce lobbying influence and enhance transparency in government decision-making.

REFERRED TO CORPORATIONS, AUTHORITIES AND COMMISSIONS
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Bill Summary · S 7681

Summary of Bill S 7681

Bill Number: S 7681
Title: Prohibits a state or local authority from employing or designating a lobbyist to engage in lobbying
Status: Referred to Corporations, Authorities and Commissions
Introduced: April 29, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 7681 aims to restrict the ability of state and local authorities to employ or designate lobbyists for the purpose of engaging in lobbying activities. The primary intent of this legislation is to reduce the influence of lobbying on governmental decision-making and to promote transparency and accountability within public institutions.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition on Lobbyist Employment: The bill explicitly prohibits any state or local authority from hiring or designating individuals as lobbyists who would engage in lobbying activities.
  • Definition of Lobbying: While the bill does not provide a detailed definition in the summary, lobbying typically refers to activities aimed at influencing government policy or decisions.
  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill may include provisions for enforcement, although specific details on penalties or compliance measures are not outlined in the provided information.

Affected Parties

  • State and Local Authorities: This bill directly impacts governmental bodies at both the state and local levels, restricting their ability to utilize lobbyists.
  • Lobbyists and Lobbying Firms: Individuals and organizations engaged in lobbying will be affected as they will no longer have the opportunity to work with state or local authorities.
  • Public Interest Groups: Organizations that rely on lobbying to advocate for specific issues may find their ability to influence local and state policies diminished.

Legislative Timeline

  • April 29, 2025: Bill S 7681 was introduced and referred to the Corporations, Authorities and Commissions committee.
  • May 13, 2025: The bill was placed on the first report calendar.
  • May 14, 2025: The bill advanced to the second report calendar.
  • May 15, 2025: The bill advanced to a third reading.
  • June 5, 2025: The bill passed the Senate and was subsequently delivered to the Assembly, where it was again referred to the Corporations, Authorities and Commissions committee.

Conclusion

Bill S 7681 represents a significant shift in how state and local authorities can interact with lobbyists, aiming to enhance the integrity of public decision-making processes. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for lobbying practices and governmental transparency will be closely monitored by stakeholders across various sectors.

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

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