Plain English Breakdown
The official summary states no reimbursement is required for a 'specified reason' but does not list that specific reason in the provided text, leaving some uncertainty about why.
Stopping Fake Public Support from Lobbyist Employers
This law makes it illegal for lobbyist employers to create fake public support or send messages using made-up names without permission.
What This Bill Does
- Extends existing rules against creating false appearances of public opinion to include lobbyist employers.
- Prohibits sending communications to state officials in the name of a person who does not exist.
- Bans sending messages in someone's real name without that person giving permission first.
- Declares that this change supports the goals of the Political Reform Act of 1974.
Who It Names or Affects
- Lobbyist employers, which are people or groups who hire lobbyists but are not lobbying firms themselves.
- State officials and candidates who receive communications from these employers.
Terms To Know
- Lobbyist employer
- Any person or group, other than a lobbying firm, who hires lobbyists or pays for their services.
- Fictitious appearance
- A false look of public support or opposition created by using fake names or misleading information.
Limits and Unknowns
- The bill does not specify the exact date it becomes effective.
- It states that no state reimbursement is required for local costs, but only mentions a specified reason without detailing what that reason is in this summary.
- Violations are punishable as a misdemeanor under existing laws.