New Jersey Assembly Bill A264

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Redefines governmental affairs agent to include those persons performing activities for more than one hour in calendar year.

Impact

Should A264 be enacted, it would significantly impact the operational dynamics of lobbyists and individuals who engage in advocacy activities. By tightening the criteria under which a person is considered a governmental affairs agent, the bill seeks to expand the pool of individuals required to disclose their activities and the compensation they receive for lobbying efforts. This legislative change may uncover previously untracked lobbying activities and promote greater accountability in governmental affairs.

Summary

Assembly Bill A264 aims to redefine the term 'governmental affairs agent' by lowering the threshold of activities performed by such individuals within a calendar year from 20 hours to just one hour. This change would classify individuals who engage in lobbying practices, even minimally, under the existing regulatory framework requiring them to adhere to disclosure and reporting guidelines. The bill is sponsored by Assemblymen Brandon Umba and Michael Torrissi, aiming to increase transparency in the influence exerted on legislation and governmental processes in the State of New Jersey.

Contention

The bill has raised points of contention among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that increasing transparency in governmental dealings and lobbying practices is crucial for upholding public trust in the legislative process. Critics, however, may contend that such a stringent definition could discourage individuals from advocating for their causes, particularly those from smaller organizations or grassroots movements who may only engage in limited advocacy efforts. The discourse surrounding A264 highlights the delicate balance between transparency and the accessibility of the legislative process for a broader range of voices.