The bill seeks to improve transparency in lobbying activities in West Virginia by amending various sections of the Code of West Virginia and introducing new provisions. A significant change is the establishment of an electronic lobbyist registration and reporting system by the Ethics Commission, which must be operational by December 31, 2025. This system will facilitate electronic registration and reporting for lobbyists, while also providing a public searchable database of registered lobbyists. Additional measures include the requirement for lobbyists to wear identification badges on Capitol grounds, the publication of their photographs and information, and an increase in registration fees from $100 to $250.

Moreover, the bill imposes stricter reporting requirements, increasing the frequency of reports from three to six times a year and raising the thresholds for grassroots lobbying campaigns. It prohibits lobbyists from receiving contingent fees and making political campaign contributions, aiming to mitigate conflicts of interest. The legislation also enhances the duties of lobbyists, mandates detailed reporting of expenditures, and introduces compliance audits, along with increased penalties for violations, including potential bans on future lobbying for repeat offenders. Overall, the bill aims to create a more transparent and accountable lobbying environment in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 6B-3-1, 6B-3-2, 6B-3-3, 6B-3-3a, 6B-3-4, 6B-3-5, 6B-3-7, 6B-3-9, 6B-3-10, 6B-3-11, 6B-2-12
Committee Substitute: 6B-3-1, 6B-3-2, 6B-3-3, 6B-3-3a, 6B-3-4, 6B-3-5, 6B-3-7, 6B-3-9, 6B-3-11, 6B-2-12, 6B-3-12
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 6B-3-1, 6B-3-2, 6B-3-3, 6B-3-3a, 6B-3-4, 6B-3-5, 6B-3-7, 6B-3-9, 6B-3-11, 6B-2-12, 6B-3-12