The reputable and every-growing transportation corporation, Lyft Inc., is now facing some trouble on the legislative front. Lyft has recently agreed to pay a $6,000 fine for not disclosing their many lobbying connections and influences that have been used consistently to persuade and attract the attention of California State officials. “Companies that hire lobbyists to advocate with state government are required to file timely reports detailing the amount of payments. Lyft has failed to file the reports by the given deadline,” reports LA Times.

The accusation and primary investigation was brought to light by the Fair Political Practices Commission. They aimed to acknowledge and showcase the anti-procedural act by the large transportation establishment, in accordance with 1995 Lobbying Disclosure Act. While Lyft has accepted all accusations and has shown compliance with the law, the commission will decide and discuss more on the matter on July 21^st.

According to LA Times. Lyft spent over $217,000 on lobbying partnerships during the 2013-3014 legislative session. During that time, their connections generally lobbied and worked in certain political areas that aimed to influence transportation-regulating bills. As of now, Lyft reports that “the late filing was an oversight caused by their reliance on its firms to file reports and their lack of experience as a lobbyist employer”.  While Lyft has acknowledged their mistake, they stand strong on the principles and integrity of their company, and affirm that they did not report their lobbying interests and connections in hopes of concealing their government relations and influences. 

Lyft is not the only corporation that has faced fines for not meeting lobbyists and government regulation restrictions. According the Washington Post, the Carmen Group also faced the same situation at the end of summer 2015. The company faced a fine of $125,000 for not reporting their lobbying contributions and influences. The enforcement on both corporations only further signify the intervention and limitation of corrupt and grossing lobbying connections. According to the Washington Post, Acting U.S. Attorney of the District Vincent H. Cohen, Jr. stated that “the American public has a right to know about the efforts of paid lobbyists to influence legislative and executive decision-making”.

This entry was posted on Thursday, July 14th, 2016 at 9:26 am and is filed under Lobbying News by Vbhotla. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.