Lobbying

Lobbying is the practice of trying to persuade legislators to propose, pass, or defeat legislation or to change existing laws. A lobbyist may work for a group, organization, or industry, and presents information on legislative proposals to support his or her clients' interests.

The Lobbying Disclosure Act  of 1995 establishes criteria for determining when an organization or firm should register their employees as lobbyists. Lobbyists register with the Senate Office of Public Records.

Office of Public Records

The Office of Public Records receives, processes, and maintains for public inspection records filed with the Secretary of the Senate involving the Lobbying Disclosure Act, the Federal Election Campaign Act, the Ethics in Government Act, the Mutual Security Act, and the Senate Code of Official Conduct. The office has many other responsibilities in addition to their lobbyist registration duties.

Overview of the Office of Public Records

Download Registration Forms

Find Lobbyist Registrations

Lobbying Disclosure Act

Lobbying Disclosure Act (as amended)

Lobbying Disclosure Act Guidance

History of Lobbying

Learn more about the history of lobbying.

History of Lobbying

Senators Disclose Finances, June 2, 1913

Senator Censured in Lobbyist Case, November 4, 1929

Lobbyists

Find Lobbyist Registrations

Interest Groups and Lobbyists:  Sources of Information (pdf)

Lobbying Disclosure in the House