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    Frequently Asked Questions About Lobbying Disclosure

    Frequently asked questions

    As of January 1, 2007, all lobbyists, lobbying firms and principals must register on separate forms with the Department of State (Department) within ten days of acting in any capacity as a lobbyist, lobbying firm or principal unless exempted by § 1306-A of § 13A06.  Exemption from registration and reporting.

    Important Definitions:

    Lobbyist- any individual, association, corporation, partnership, business trust or other entity that engages in lobbying on behalf of a principal for economic consideration, this includes an attorney at law while engaged in lobbying.

    Lobbying Firm- an entity that engages in lobbying for economic consideration on behalf of a principal other than the entity itself.

    Principal- an individual, association, corporation, partnership, business trust or other entity:

    1. on whose behalf a lobbying firm or lobbyist engages in lobbying; or
    2. that engages in lobbying on the principal’s own behalf.

    Registration begins on January 1, 2007 and will be biennial. All lobbyists, lobbying firms and principals must register on separate registrations with the Department within ten days of acting in any capacity as a lobbyist, lobbying firm or principal.

    Yes, $300 will be due at the time of registration.

    Registration forms are required to be submitted online at www.palobbyingservices.pa.gov.

    Registered principals, lobbying firms or lobbyists will be required to file quarterly expense reports no later than 30 days after the last day of the quarter.

    The quarterly “reporting periods” are as follows:

    January 1 through March 31 (Deadline April 30)

    April 1 though June 30 (Deadline July 30)

    July 1 through September 30 (Deadline October 30)

    October 1 through December 31 (Deadline January 30)

    Yes, lobbyists who make contributions to candidates and political committees must still file registration statements and reports as required by section 1625 of the Pennsylvania Election Code, 25 P.S. § 3245.

    For additional information not contained in this FAQ, please contact the Bureau of Campaign Finance & Lobbying Disclosure, 500 North Office Building, Harrisburg, PA 17120; phone (717) 787-5280 (Option 5).