The proposed bill aims to enhance governmental ethics by prohibiting lobbying activities conducted for or by designated foreign adversaries, which include specific countries such as China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria, as well as their political parties and associated entities. It defines key terms such as "foreign adversary," "foreign political party," and "foreign adversary client," outlining the scope of individuals and organizations that fall under these categories. The bill explicitly states that no person may engage in lobbying on behalf of these foreign entities or receive compensation for such activities.
To enforce this prohibition, the bill empowers the attorney general to initiate civil lawsuits against violators, with civil penalties set at a maximum of $25,000 for the first offense, $100,000 for a second offense, and $150,000 for any subsequent violations. All fines collected will be directed to the state general fund. Additionally, the attorney general is authorized to recover attorney fees and costs associated with enforcing the act. The bill will take effect upon its publication in the statute book.