JCOPE Adopts Lobbying Regulations

The Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE) has formally adopted the comprehensive lobbying regulations that it first proposed in (August 2016?).  JCOPE’s notice of adoption was published in the May 9^th edition of the New York State Register (see page 21).

The new lobbying regulations, 19 NYCRR Part 943, will go into effect on January 1, 2019.

According to JCOPE:

“Part 943 marks the first time that existing guidelines and decades of advisory opinions will be compiled in one place in New York. It will provide a ‘one-stop shop’ for information about the rules and requirements associated with lobbying in New York. Designed to close loopholes that have evolved over time, the regulations will capture more and better information about the targets of lobbying activities and the real clients of lobbyists.

The regulations take into account the use of ever-changing technology in conducting lobbying campaigns. They also streamline reporting requirements, providing more clarity about the requirements related to consultants, grassroots lobbying, sources of funding, and the use of new media for lobbying purposes.”

JCOPE staff informs me that we can expect them to publish new guidance materials and offer training sessions relating to lobbying between now and the end of 2018.

For those of us who live in the lobbying compliance world, JCOPE has a taken a good step forward in terms of providing clarity and consistency in their regulation of lobbying activity and reporting requirements. I look forward to their continued efforts to educate the regulated community by providing additional guidance and training.