SF2021

This Minnesota Senate bill (S.F. No. 2021) requires the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board to publish a handbook for lobbying on its website. The handbook must be written in plain language and provide clear explanations on:

1. Lobbyist registration requirements, including:

   • When a person must register as a lobbyist.
   • Activities that count toward the financial thresholds set in Minnesota Statutes 10A.01, subdivision 21.
   • How registration applies to individuals employed by government entities.

2. Activities and expenses that do not contribute to financial thresholds but still must be reported as lobbying disbursements.

3. Differences in lobbying regulations for:

   • The Legislature.
   • The Executive Branch.
   • Political subdivisions.
   • The Public Utilities Commission.

The handbook must be updated regularly to reflect changes in statutes and rules. Additionally, in developing and maintaining the handbook, the board must consult registered lobbyists who are not full-time professionals, including those working for: - Nonprofit organizations. - Small organizations. - Organizations led by Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) individuals.

The goal of this bill is to increase transparency and accessibility in lobbying regulations and reporting requirements in Minnesota.