SF2562

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to update and modify the rules and requirements related to campaign finance and lobbying in Minnesota. It includes changes to the definitions of key roles such as lobbyists and metropolitan governmental units, as well as updates to reporting requirements for lobbying activities and statements of economic interest for certain individuals.

Main Provisions

• Definitions Update: The bill revises definitions related to lobbying and government entities. It defines what constitutes a lobbyist and now includes language about expert witnesses as individuals who provide specialized testimony or professional opinions.

• Lobbyist Reporting Requirements: It mandates that lobbyists must report specific subjects of interest that their actions are addressing, as well as any administrative or governmental actions they aim to influence. They are also required to disclose any significant gifts or benefits they have given to officials.

• Economic Interest Statements: The bill expands the requirements for filing statements of economic interest to more individuals, specifying various public officials and local officials within metropolitan areas.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Expert Witness Inclusion: The term "expert witness" is defined and included in lobbying activities, requiring lobbyists to report interactions involving these individuals.

• Lobbying Activities Detail: There is a greater emphasis on transparency, with lobbyists needing to provide detailed reports about the specific governmental actions and interests they are trying to influence, including reports on the sources of funds for lobbying.

• Expanded Reporting Obligations: The list of who must file statements of economic interest is broadened, affecting a wider range of public and local officials, with more detailed expectations for the content of these statements.

Relevant Terms

• Campaign finance
• Lobbyist
• Metropolitan governmental unit
• Expert witness
• Economic interest statement
• Public official
• Reporting requirements