The California Legislature has introduced legislation that requires interest groups with professional lobbyists seeking to influence the California Coastal Commission (CCC) to disclose their lobbying activities, including payments given to members of CCC. CCC is a state agency established in 1972 to regulate development projects and oversee land use issues along California’s coastline. This measure comes in response to concerns over the disproportionate influence of lobbyists on members of the CCC.
The existing rules mandate that only limited information pertaining to engagement with the commissioners be released. The proposed legislation amends the Political Reform Act of 1974 by obligating individuals who lobby CCC to disclose their employers, the issues which they are advocating for, and their compensation. The adoption of these rules would result in CCC complying with the same reporting regulations that other government agencies currently have for lobbying activities.
This legislation comes at a time of some controversy for CCC. The recent unexplained dismissal of the agency’s executive director has stirred speculation of deference to certain groups. Environmental activists have questioned the role of development lobbyists in advocating for that management change. For years, environmental groups have expressed concern over the relationship between CCC and lobbyists that promote development projects. Similar legislation introduced by Democrats did not succeed several times in the past, but supporters of the bill are confident that the firing of Charles Lester would be instrumental now in pushing through the legislation.
In addition to these disclosure requirements, other legislation to promote transparency and impartiality is being considered. Assemblyman Marc Levine intends to propose a bill mandating a one-year ban on registered lobbying for commissioners who have left the panel. Other measures supported by various interest groups include requiring that lobbyists register and disclose their client lists.
Contact Shane Coons at 949-333-0900 or visit his website at www.ShaneCoonsLaw.com to find out more about his practice.