Covington annually publishes a detailed survey of state campaign finance, lobbying, and gift rules. Now, for the first time, Covington is releasing an updated survey that details federal campaign finance, lobbying, and gift rules, in addition to those of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Corporations, trade associations, non-profits, other organizations, and individuals face significant penalties and reputational harm if they violate federal or state laws governing corporate and personal political activities, the registration of lobbyists, lobbying reporting, or the giving of gifts or items of value to government officials or employees. To help organizations and individuals comply with these rules, this detailed survey—now 327 pages—summarizes the campaign finance, lobbying, and gift rules adopted by the federal government, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia.
Newly added federal sections cover the Lobbying Disclosure Act, the Foreign Agents Registration Act, Congressional gift rules, executive branch gift rules, and the Federal Election Campaign Act. Information is provided in a table question and answer format intended to address common questions with practical guidance.
The lobbying section addresses questions such as who is required to register and file reports, which activities trigger registration, and common exceptions; whether federal or state law covers procurement lobbying, grassroots, and/or goodwill lobbying; whether state law regulates local lobbying; and the timing for registration. It also covers common post-registration questions such as reporting deadlines and training requirements.
The gift section addresses whether federal or state law imposes a general restriction on gifts to government employees regardless of source and whether special restrictions apply to gifts from lobbyists or lobbyist principals. Common exceptions, including for meals and travel, and dollar thresholds, are addressed.
The campaign finance section addresses corporate contribution prohibitions and restrictions, corporate contributor registration and reporting requirements, and federal PAC registration and reporting requirements, among other topics.
Covington is pleased to be able to offer the survey for purchase in its entirety. Alternatively, groups of states may be made available at discounted rates. For questions or to purchase the survey, please contact 50statesurvey@cov.com.
If you have any questions concerning the material discussed in this client alert, please contact the members of our Election and Political Law practice.
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