Feb. 14, 2018
HARRISBURG – Today, legislation drafted by Rep. Bryan Cutler (R-Peach Bottom) and former House member and now Judge Brandon Neuman of Washington to make lobbying in the Commonwealth more transparent became law. It received strong bipartisan support from the General Assembly.
“I have been working to pass this bill since my first year in office; even though it has been a long journey, I believe this demonstrates how working in a bipartisan fashion can yield great results. It is satisfying to see it become law so we can work to restore the public’s faith in government,” Cutler said. “Even though he is no longer serving the House, I thank Judge Neuman for his dedication to this initiative.”
The law increases fines and penalties for violations of the Lobbying Disclosure Act. It increases the maximum penalty imposed by the Ethics Commission from the previous fine of $2,000 to $4,000. The law also increases 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 law focuses on making lobbyists who do not follow the rules more accountable with penalties that better fit the crime. As we focus on positioning the government to more effectively earn the public’s trust, it’s fitting that this legislation finally receives full support,” Cutler added.
Additionally, the law improves the current electronic filing system for lobbyists. It requires all filings to be posted on the Department of State’s publicly accessible website within seven days of receipt. Registrants who file electronically will now receive an e-receipt to serve as proof of filing.
The electronic filing changes will be effective 60 from today per a change made by the Senate.
Representative Bryan Cutler
100th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
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