Update on Lobbyist Ordinance Registration

Any person who, as an appointed representative, seeks to influence a municipal decision. This includes any attorneys, accountants, or consultants engaged in activties in accordance with Section 2(e) of the Lobbyist Registration Ordinance of the City of Providence approved March 11, 2011.

Effective July 1, 2011, prior to their first lobbying activity , all lobbyists must register with the city clerk by filing a Statement of Registration in accordance with procedures set forth by that office. Online registration may be available on or shortly after July 1, 2011.

Lobbyists must certify under oath that the information contained on their registration and reporting forms is true and correct. The annual filing fee is $150.00. Lobbyists employed by organizations exempt from federal taxation pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or by unincorporated associations with operating budgets of less than $250,000, pay an annual fee of $25.00.

REPORTS:
A. There are two separate reports required, one by the lobbyist and one by the lobbyist's employer. The report must include the name of the lobbyist, their employer or client, employer's address, telephone number, email address, and the amount of salary or compensation related to lobbying. Reports must also detail the lobbyist's activities, including the city official(s) and municipal decision(s) concerned, as well as identifying other information. Quarterly Reports shall include any expenditure, gift, honorarium, or campaign contribution, in cash or in kind of $25.00 or more.

January through March

April through June

July through September

October through December

C. Not later than January 15^th of each year, every entity which employs a lobbyist must file a final report listing all money or anything of value exceeding $250.00 provided or promised to any city official within the preceding calendar year. A copy of the report shall also be filed with the Rhode Island Ethics Commission. Every lobbyist and every entity employing a lobbyist must retain for five years, all documentation related to the reports.

An Identification Badge including a photo of the lobbyist shall be issued by the City Clerk to every lobbyist and worn at all times while in City Hall on official lobbyist business. The color of the badge shall change each year.

ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES:
Any lobbyist found to have intentionally violated any provision of the Lobbyist Registration Ordinance may be subject to administrative penalties of $250.00 per day of violation, not to exceed $25,000 in any calendar year, and/or removal of such lobbyist from the register and prohibition of lobbying activity until the following year or until compliance is established, all in accordance with Section 8 of Lobbyist Registration Ordinance of the City of Providence.