California Senate Bill SB459

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/21
• Refer: 2/25/21
• Refer: 3/10/21
• Refer: 3/18/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/27/21
• Refer: 4/28/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/1/21
• Refer: 6/10/21
• Refer: 6/23/21
• Report Pass: 7/5/21
• Refer: 7/6/21
• Report Pass: 8/11/22
• Enrolled: 8/31/22
• Chaptered: 9/30/22
• Passed: 9/30/22

Caption

Political Reform Act of 1974: lobbying.

Impact

The proposed changes by SB 459 aim to enhance transparency and accountability among lobbyists. By mandating detailed disclosures about lobbying activities and expenses, the bill is anticipated to provide a clearer view of the influence of money in politics, enabling both lawmakers and the public to scrutinize the relationships between lobbyists and elected officials. It also imposes new reporting requirements for significant expenditures on issue lobbying advertisements, therefore improving oversight on such campaign tactics.

Summary

Senate Bill 459, introduced by Allen, modifies the Political Reform Act of 1974, which governs lobbyist activities and the pursuit to influence state legislative and administrative actions. The bill requires that after the Secretary of State certifies an online filing and disclosure system for lobbying information, lobbyists, lobbying firms, and lobbyist employers will need to provide specific details in their periodic reports. This includes identifying each bill or administrative action subject to lobbying efforts within each reporting period, especially highlighting their positions on lobbying advertisements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 459 is generally positive among reform advocates who see it as a step towards greater transparency in the political process. Supporters argue that these disclosure requirements will help demystify the lobbying process and reduce the potential for corruption. However, some stakeholders may view the increased regulatory burden on lobbyists and firms as excessive, arguing it could stifle legitimate lobbying efforts and advocacy.

Contention

Notable contentions regarding SB 459 include concerns from lobbyists about the ramifications of expanded reporting requirements, especially related to punitive measures for non-compliance. Critics argue that such stringent regulations might lead to a chilling effect on lobbying activities, potentially reducing the voices in legislative advocacy. Balancing these interests against the need for transparency remains a contentious issue.