Strengthening Democracy Task Force Co-Chairs Ramirez, Williams, Mullin Introduce The Lobbyist Loophole Closure Act

Washington, DC-Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), co-chair of the Strengthening Democracy Task Force and a Common Cause alumna,alongside fellow co-chairs Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05)and Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15), announced the introduction of H.R.7231, the Lobbyist Loophole Closure Act. The legislation would broaden the scope of lobbying activities that trigger lobbyist registration and disclosure requirements.

The Lobbyist Loophole Closure Act lowers the original 20% time threshold required to register as a lobbyist to 10% and expands lobbying activities to include legislative, political, and strategic counseling services.

"We need bold legislative action if we want to end corruption and corporate influence in politics. Transparency is key to thriving, healthy democracies. Yet dark money donors and billionaires have enjoyed access to politicians through unregistered lobbyists, swaying decisions and shaping policy," said Congresswoman Ramirez."I am proud to introduce the Lobbyist Loophole Closure Act, a critical piece of legislation to enact much-needed lobbying registration reform. Congress must act today to create stronger disclosures, put a stop to shadow lobbying, and ensure checks on conflicts of interest."

"When our government, and the elections that determine who runs it, are so heavily influenced by dark money, billionaires, and secret interests, voters are silenced. I'm proud to co-lead the Lobbyist Loophole Closure Act to shine a light on government processes and promote integrity and transparency. The power belongs to the people-let's make sure they know what's happening behind the scenes of their government," said Rep. Williams.

"I'm proud to co-lead this common sense bill that will close a decades-long loophole and improve transparency around who is influencing our elected leaders," said Rep. Mullin."The American people deserve a government that answers to them, not special interests. It's simple: if someone engages in any type of lobbying, and is paid for it, they should register as a lobbyist."

The legislation is endorsed by End Citizens United and Public Citizen.

"For too long, powerful special interests have been able to exert enormous influence in Washington by exploiting loopholes in our lobbying laws and avoiding basic disclosure requirements," said End Citizens United Action Fund President Tiffany Muller. "Representative Ramirez's bill directly takes on this problem by tightening exemptions that allow lobbyists and special interests to operate in the dark. We're grateful for Representative Ramirez's ongoing leadership to root out corruption and make our government more accountable to the American people."

For the full text of the Lobbyist Loophole Closure Act, CLICK HERE.