The proposed bill aims to prohibit lobbying activities on behalf of "covered foreign entities," which are defined as individuals, foreign governments, or parties that meet specific criteria, such as being listed on the U.S. Consolidated Screening List or Entity List, being domiciled in China or Russia, or being under the influence or control of these governments. The bill establishes a clear definition of what constitutes a covered foreign entity and outlines the conditions under which lobbying is prohibited.
Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for violations of this prohibition. Individuals who receive monetary benefits for lobbying and are found to be lobbying for a covered foreign entity will face escalating consequences based on the number of offenses. The penalties range from fines for first-time offenders to potential imprisonment and higher fines for subsequent offenses, with the third or subsequent violation classified as an unclassified felony. This legislation seeks to enhance the integrity of lobbying practices in Arkansas by restricting foreign influence.