PRESIDENT ELECT DONALD TRUMP AND LOBBYING REFORM

Proposal

1. Re-institute a 5 year ban on all executive branch officials lobbying the government for 5 years after they leave government service. Ask Congress to pass this ban into law so it cannot be lifted by executive order.
2. Ask Congress to institute its own 5-year ban on lobbying by former members of Congress and their staffs.
3. Expand the definition of lobbyist so we close all the loopholes that former government officials use by labeling themselves consultants and advisors when we all know they are lobbyists. Currently under the Lobbying Disclosure Act, an individual must register if he or she makes more than one contact with someone specified under the law such as a lawmaker, Capitol Hill aide or senior executive branch officials. In addition, to meet the definition of a lobbyist, the person must spend at least 20 percent of his or her time for each client on lobbying activities. Former lawmakers who join lobbying firms, often say they offer clients strategic advice and avoid registering as lobbyists because they do not meet the reporting threshold.
4. Issue a lifetime ban against senior executive branch officials lobbying on behalf of a foreign government.
5. Ask Congress to pass a campaign finance reform that prevents registered foreign lobbyists from raising money in American elections.

Note:

While the Association for Government Relations Professionals (AGRP), formerly known as the American League of Lobbyists closed down in April 2016, a new organization called 'National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics' https://lobbyinginstitute.com/professional-association/about/leadership/ has been established by Paul A. Miller, co-owner of the lobbying firm Miller/Wenhold Capitol Strategies LLC. Paul's vast experience in the lobbying profession led him in January 2006 to introduce the first lobbying certificate programme for the profession. The National Institute For Lobbying & Ethics Public Policy Certificate program is designed to provide lobbyists, governmental affairs, grassroots, social media, public relations, and corporate/association professionals at all levels, the necessary professional continuing education they need to keep pace with an ever changing profession.