Q: I’m confused by what lobbyists have to list in the “issue disclosure” section of their forms. Could you please clarify what needs to be disclosed on that form?

A: According to the LDA Guidance, for disclosing issues and purposes for which lobbyists are retained by other entities, the following must be listed (the relevant form is the LD-1 or LD-2):

• The issues on which the lobbying activities will be focused, using the issue codes established by the House and Senate
• A brief description of the legislation, policy, or other information about the lobbying issue
• Where the lobbying activities will be focused: House of Representatives, Senate, or a particular federal agency or office
• The identity of each lobbyist employee engaged in the lobbying activities described above

It is not sufficient to just list a bill number as the description of the lobbying issue area. The instructions for preparation of the LD-1 ask for “detailed, but brief.” List the bill number, if applicable, and also a brief description of the topic which the bill covers, or the subsection of legislation, if a larger bill, such as an appropriations measure.

The information in this post is condensed from the Lobbying Compliance Handbook, by Cleta Mitchell.

Have a question for Compliance Q&A? Email your questions to ehill@columbiabooks.com.

This information should not be taken as legal advice. Please see our “About Lobby Blog” page for more on that.