The right to lobby, or petition government to influence public policy, is one of the most treasured in a democracy. It is affirmed by the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.  Lobbying activities of universities and other charitable organizations are regulated by the federal government. The rules require the university to report biannually all lobbying activity and prohibit the use of federal funds, inlcuding grant awards, for lobbying activities.

For the most recent information on federal lobbying rules, contact the Federal Affairs Office.
 
Am I a Lobbyist?
Since 1995, under the federal Lobbying Disclosure Act (2 U.S. Code, Chapter 26), most persons who are paid to make direct "lobbying contacts" with members of Congress and officials of the federal executive branch are considered lobbyists. These individuals spend at least 20 percent of their time over a six month period lobbying and are reported on the University’s biannual registration with the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives.

What qualifies as a “lobbying contact”?
Lobbying contact includes any oral or written communication with a covered official* on behalf of the University to influence legislation; an executive order, agency rule or position of the U.S. government; the negotiation, award or administration of a federal contract, grant, loan, permit or license.
  
"Lobbying Contact" does not include a request made to an official for a meeting; testimony provided as a member of the public on the record; information provided in writing at the request of an official; or written response to a notice in the Federal Register, Commerce Business Daily or similar publication soliciting comments from the public.

Federal Lobbying Disclosure Questionnaire
In accordance with the requirements of the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995, the Federal Affairs Office submits a biannual report of federal lobbying activity. Click here to complete the electronic federal lobbying questionnaire.

Do I need to fill out a lobbying disclosure?
If you have had any contact with an executive or legislative official on behalf of the University with regard to government policy, action, and legislation, you should complete the questionnaire. 

University leadership receive a quarterly reminder letter from the Federal Affairs Office inviting them to complete the form. If you have received such an invitation, feel free to complete the paper form and mail it in, or submit electronically using the link above.  If you are unsure whether you need to report lobbying activity or have related questions, contact the Federal Affairs Office.

*Covered officials include any Member of Congress and their staff, the President, Vice President, White House staff, federal Department Secretaries, Deputy Secretaries and Assistant Secretaries, Presidential-appointed directors of federal agencies, centers and institutes (for example, the Director of NIH, the Deputy Administrator of NASA, an Assistant Secretary of the Navy, etc).