Florida Lobbying Reform 3/07/2006
Jan 4, 2007
Today, March 7th, begins the 2006 Florida Legislative Session. It is important that you are aware of, and familiar with, the newly enacted law which places certain restrictions on gifts to legislators, their staff, certain members of the Executive branch of government in Florida, and others.
On December 8, 2005 during a special session, the Florida legislature passed a law (Senate Bill 6B) reforming the manner in which legislators, legislative staff and members of the executive branch interact with registered lobbyists, lobbying firms and the principals those lobbyists and firms represent. Senate Bill 6B codifies a zero tolerance policy toward gifts to legislators, legislative staff, certain members of Florida’s Executive branch of government, and others. The legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Bush on December 20, 2005, prohibits legislators, legislative staff, certain members of the Executive branch and members of the Constitutional Revision Commission from receiving anything of value, either directly or indirectly, from any lobbyist, lobbying firm or principal who retains the lobbyist or lobbying firm. This prohibition includes food and beverages. Certain exemptions exist for floral arrangements and celebratory items given to legislators during the opening day of session. Each violation carries a maximum five thousand dollar penalty and up to a two-year suspension on lobbying activities. Please note that the new law applies to individuals, companies and other entities that employ or retain lobbyists and lobbying firms. Please see the attached bill and explanatory memorandum for details. Please feel free to contact our office with any questions or concerns.
The information set forth in this email and materials provided are for general informational purposes, only, and are not intended for any particular purpose or to apply to any specific situation. The information set forth in this email and materials provided are not intended to constitute, and shall not be deemed to be, legal advice or opinion of a general or specific nature. Any questions of a specific nature should be directed to an attorney for review and evaluation based upon the facts and circumstances involved.
Regards,
Rhett E. O’Doski