Lobbying the U. S. Government Background, Issues and Developments

Although the term "lobbying" may have developed a somewhat sinister and pejorative connotation over the years, the activities involved in lobbying are intertwined with fundamental First Amendment rights of speech, association and petition, and may facilitate the exchange of important information and ideas between the government and private parties. For those who act in a representative capacity for a client, lobbying the legislature for a change in the state of the law is an important part of the services provided to the client. However, because of the substantial potential for undue or wrongful influence from those who are paid to influence the legislative process, there has developed a body of law and rules to regulate lobbying activities. This book is an overview of the federal laws, ethical rules, and regulations which may be relevant to the activities of those who lobby the U.S. Congress.