Indianapolis Implements New Lobbyist Registration
Requirements and Procedures

Effective January 1, 2010, the city of Indianapolis will require individuals engaging in executive or legislative branch lobbying activity with an agency of the city of Indianapolis or Marion County to register with the Department of Code Enforcement at www.indy.gov/lobbyist.

Registration will begin on January 1, 2010, and lobbyists who are primarily employed and receive payment, or contract for financial consideration exceeding $1,000 in any calendar year are required to provide information such as their employer, agency and subject matter being lobbied, and the parties they represent within 15 business days following an initial contact with an agency in an attempt to influence an action or decision related to a proposal, contract, lease, financial arrangement, rule, regulation or policy.

Paid lobbyists also must pay a $100 fee and file an annual report by January 15 of each year. The report must contain disclosure of total payments received for each engagement, as well as a description of, and the costs associated with any item of entertainment, food, drink, honoraria, travel expenses, or registration fees given or provided to a city or county official, appointee, or employee.

There are some exceptions; such as an attorney who represents a client in a public hearing or the investigation of a criminal or civil matter, salespersons, or the media. Another exemption is in place for those who are invited to advise an agency or official.

When there is a change to any information contained in a registration statement or annual report, such as the termination of an engagement, the lobbyist must file an amendment with the Department of Code Enforcement within 15 days.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact a member of the Ice Miller's Public Affairs Group for guidance or assistance in any of your dealings with the city of Indianapolis or other state, municipal or local governments. We have many years of experience in comprehensive public affairs management with local, state and federal legislative, regulatory and administrative officials. Whether you need direct advocacy with government decision makers on a specific issue or need help in framing the public debate surrounding your company or organization, our highly experienced and diverse public affairs team can get you on the right track to achieve your objectives.

Lobbyists can register with the Department of Code Enforcement at www.indy.gov/lobbyist.

This publication is intended for general information purposes only and does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice.  The reader must consult with legal counsel to determine how laws or decisions discussed herein apply to the reader's specific circumstances.