The proposed bill aims to prohibit governmental bodies from using state or local funds to enter into contracts with lobbyists for lobbying purposes on their behalf. Specifically, it introduces a new section to the Arkansas Code, designated as 21-8-608, which clearly states that such financial arrangements are not allowed. The bill further clarifies that this prohibition extends to the payment of membership dues to organizations that lobby on behalf of governmental bodies, as well as employing registered lobbyists if state or local funds are used for these payments.

However, the bill does allow for exceptions, stating that governmental bodies are not restricted from hiring individuals, including registered lobbyists, to engage in lobbying activities on their behalf, provided that these individuals are not contracted through the use of state or local funds. This legislation seeks to ensure that public funds are not utilized for lobbying efforts, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in governmental financial practices.