Prohibit the spouse of a member of the Legislature from being employed as a private lobbyist.
Impact
If passed, SB197 will modify existing statutes related to lobbying by addressing employment restrictions specifically concerning legislators' spouses. This change is intended to enhance the ethical standards expected of public officials and reduce the risk of any undue influence exerted by lobbyists who may have personal connections to lawmakers. The bill aligns with broader efforts to improve government accountability and transparency, ensuring that public interests are prioritized in legislative decisions.
Summary
Senate Bill 197 aims to prohibit the spouse of a member of the South Dakota Legislature from being employed as a registered private lobbyist. The primary goal of this bill is to mitigate potential conflicts of interest that may arise when the spouse of a legislator lobbies for private interests. By ensuring that family ties do not affect legislative decisions, the bill advocates for maintaining the integrity and transparency of the legislative process. The legislation seeks to establish clearer boundaries regarding ethical conduct in public service.
Contention
During discussions surrounding SB197, notable points of contention have arisen regarding the implications for personal freedoms and employment opportunities for spouses of lawmakers. Supporters view the bill as a necessary step towards eliminating potential biases in policy-making and ensuring that lobbying practices remain fair and equitable. Opponents, however, argue that such restrictions could unfairly limit the professional capabilities of spouses, impacting their ability to pursue careers in lobbying or related fields, and call for a balance between ethical considerations and personal rights.
Public employees and officers: ethics; spouse of a member of the legislature; prohibit from engaging in certain lobbying activities. Amends 1978 PA 472 (MCL 4.411 - 4.431) by adding sec. 6b.
Prohibiting chairmen of state political parties during or up to one year after the termination of their employment as chairmen of those political parties from registering as lobbyists
Prohibiting chairmen of state political parties during or up to one year after the termination of their employment as chairmen of those political parties from registering as lobbyists
Prohibiting chairmen of state political parties during or up to one year after the termination of their employment as chairmen of those political parties from registering as lobbyists
Prohibiting chairmen of state political parties during or up to one year after the termination of their employment as chairmen of those political parties from registering as lobbyists
Ban Congressmen Lobbyists Act This bill prohibits Members of Congress from lobbying Congress or federal agencies at any point after leaving office. Currently, Senators are prohibited from lobbying Congress for two years after leaving office. Members of the House of Representatives are prohibited from lobbying Congress for one year after leaving office. The bill applies to any person who is a Member of Congress during the 118th Congress or any succeeding Congress.