This bill amends the state governmental ethics law by redefining key terms related to lobbying and lobbyists. A new definition of "lobbying client" is introduced, which refers to any person or entity that hires another for compensation to conduct lobbying activities on their behalf. The bill also clarifies that a coalition or association that employs lobbyists is considered the lobbying client, rather than its individual members. Additionally, the definition of "lobbyist" is updated to specify that a lobbyist is someone who is compensated at least $5,000 for lobbying activities, rather than the previous threshold of $1,000 in expenditures.

Furthermore, the bill revises the definition of "lobbying" to focus on communications made on behalf of a lobbying client to various government officials regarding legislative and executive matters. It also outlines specific exclusions from the definition of lobbying, such as communications related to ongoing legal work or technical advice requested by an executive agency. The bill repeals existing sections of K.S.A. 46-222 and 46-225, effectively replacing them with the new definitions and provisions. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 46-222, 46-225