Jul. 07, 2017
HARRISBURG – Legislation drafted by Reps. Bryan Cutler (R-Peach Bottom) and Brandon Neuman (D-Washington) that would increase government transparency and more appropriately address unlawful lobbying practices passed the House with unanimous support today.
“People are wary of the government that serves them. If they cannot believe in the process, they will never believe in the merits of legislation,” Cutler said. “Unlawful acts committed by lobbyists destroy trust, and those who are guilty should pay for their violation of the public trust.”
The bill would increase fines and penalties for violations of the Lobbying Disclosure Act. It would increase the maximum penalty imposed by the Ethics Commission from the current fine of $2,000 to $4,000. The bill also would increase the maximum administrative penalty that may be imposed for negligent failure to report under current law from $50 per day, to $50 for the first 10 days, $100 for each late day after the first 10 late days and $200 for each late day after the initial 20-day period.
“This bill is designed to benefit citizens by improving transparency, as well as increasing the fines and penalties for violations of the act and for late filings,” Neuman said.
Additionally, the bill would improve the current electronic filing system for lobbyists. It would require all filings to be posted on the Department of State’s publicly accessible website within seven days of receipt. Registrants who file electronically would receive an e-receipt to serve as proof of filing.
The bill now advances to Senate for consideration.
Representative Bryan Cutler
100th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
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