Lara Keel Texas Lobbyist
First of all, what constitutes a lobbyist in the state of Texas?
Lobbying is defined as “direct communications” with members of the legislative or executive branch of state government to influence legislation or administrative action.” See Gov’t Code §§ 305.001, 305.003(a).
All kinds of modern communication methods fall under “direct communication.” Virtually any way that you communicate directly with a legislator qualified: email, phone conversations, faxes, telegraphs, letters, etc.
Lobbying in Texas is a good thing.
It has become popular in recent years to speak negatively about lobbyists and lobbying activities. Some people even think lobbying should be outlawed. However, a democratic society is based on the principle that private citizens have a voice that MUST be heard by their government. Therefore, the act of lobbying – which is simply using every legal method at your disposal to make your concerns heard – must always be allowed in a free society. Not only is lobbying constitutionally allowed, it is inevitable in a democracy.
The Legal Code for lobbyists in Texas.
The state of Texas provides an extensive legal code for the oversight and tracking of professional lobbyists. While any citizen may lobby for their cause, a professional lobbyist is defined as anyone who received compensation of more than $1000 for these activities in a single quarter. These lobbyists must register. After registration, their activities, clients, and fees are tracked by the state of Texas and made public to all interested parties.
The Texas Lobby Group is fully in support of robust regulations for lobbyists. All qualified lobbyists in Texas should duly register and submit themselves to the guidelines and laws of the state. Within the confines of those laws, the Texas Lobby Group serves its clients to the best of our ability.
Texas Lobbyists Registration Fees
The registration fee for lobbying in Texas is $75. Registration expires at the end of the calendar year regardless of when the lobbyist registered.
Registered lobbyists must report their activities monthly unless they plan to make less than $1000 in a calendar year. The monthly report must include all compensation and pertinent activities.
Lara Keel and the Texas Lobby Group
Lara Keel is a registered lobbyist in the state of Texas. She and the Texas Lobby Group provide lobbying, government relations, and consulting services for their clients. The services include: legislative lobbying, grassroots development, communications, political strategy, advice, counsel, and other services.
Contact the Texas Lobby Group at our website.