Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HCR4

Caption

A concurrent resolution relating to the joint rules governing lobbyists of the Senate and House of Representatives for the Ninety-first General Assembly.(Formerly HSB 93.)

Impact

The resolution sets important regulations against potential conflicts of interest and offers new constraints on the behavior of lobbyists, specifically regarding financial transactions, gifts, and the influence exerted over lawmakers. By requiring lobbyists to register and to file detailed reports about their interactions and financial dealings, HCR4 aims to close loopholes that could otherwise facilitate unethical lobbying practices. These provisions serve to reinforce the ethical standards for legislative conduct and ensure that the members of the General Assembly remain accountable to the constituents they serve.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 4 (HCR4) outlines the joint rules governing lobbyists for the Senate and House of Representatives during the Ninety-first General Assembly. This resolution establishes necessary definitions concerning lobbying activities and delineates the obligations and conduct expected from registered lobbyists as well as the members of the legislature engaged with such individuals. The intent is to enhance clarity in lobbying practices, ensuring that all activities are conducted transparently and ethically to maintain public trust in legislative processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, HCR4 reflects a commitment to improving governance and ethics within the legislative framework. By addressing the often-sensitive area of lobbying, this concurrent resolution strives to create a more transparent and accountable process through which lobbyists and legislators conduct their interactions, hopefully fostering greater public confidence in governmental operations.

Contention

While the resolution proposes an organized framework for lobbying oversight, it may generate debate among legislators and lobbyists regarding the extent of regulation. Some may argue that stringent lobbying restrictions might hinder legitimate advocacy and access to legislative processes, while others would contend that they are essential to curtail undue influence and corruption. The success of HCR4 will depend on its execution and the acceptance of these rules by both legislators and lobbyists alike; the balance between facilitating advocacy and maintaining ethical standards will be key.

Companion Bills

IA SCR1

Similar To A concurrent resolution relating to the joint rules governing lobbyists of the Senate and House of Representatives for the Ninety-first General Assembly.(Formerly SSB 1021.)

IA SSB1021

Related A concurrent resolution relating to the joint rules governing lobbyists of the Senate and House of Representatives for the Ninety-first General Assembly.(See SCR 1.)

IA HSB93

Related A concurrent resolution relating to the joint rules governing lobbyists of the Senate and House of Representatives for the Ninety-first General Assembly.(See HCR 4.)

Similar Bills

CO HB1170

Lobbying by Nonprofit Entities

CA SB569

Political Reform Act of 1974: audits.

MI HB5331

Public employees and officers: ethics; lobbyists or lobbyist agents giving or purchasing food or beverages for legislators; prohibit. Amends secs. 3, 5, 8, 9 & 11 of 1978 PA 472 (MCL 4.413 et seq.).

CA AB1306

Political Reform Act of 1974: misuse of funds.

AZ HB2364

Lobbyists; gift ban exemption

CA SB305

Political Reform Act of 1974: electronic filing.

IA SSB1021

A concurrent resolution relating to the joint rules governing lobbyists of the Senate and House of Representatives for the Ninety-first General Assembly.(See SCR 1.)

IA HCR7

A concurrent resolution relating to the joint rules governing lobbyists of the Senate and House of Representatives for the Ninetieth General Assembly.(Formerly HSB 78.)