HJR1006
An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Providing That A Governmental Body Shall Not Use State Or Local Funds To Enter Into A Contract With A Lobbyist For Lobbying Purposes.
Last Action (Jan. 13, 2025): WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
This House Joint Resolution proposes an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution to prohibit government bodies from using state or local funds to contract with lobbyists for the purpose of influencing legislative or administrative actions. The ban applies to direct lobbying contracts and also prevents the use of public funds to pay membership dues to organizations that engage in lobbying activities. However, the proposal explicitly allows governmental bodies to employ individuals directly—including those registered as lobbyists—to perform lobbying tasks on their behalf. The amendment defines key terms such as 'lobbying,' 'governmental body,' and 'state or local funds' to clarify the scope of the prohibition. If passed, this constitutional amendment would take effect on January 1, 2027, following approval by the state's electors.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries include Arkansas taxpayers, who would see a reduction in the expenditure of public funds for external lobbying services, and potentially the general public, who may perceive this change as an increase in government transparency and a reduction in the influence of private lobbying firms on policy decisions.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entities negatively impacted would be private lobbying firms and public-interest associations that rely on membership dues from government bodies. These organizations could experience a loss of revenue and institutional influence, as governmental bodies would be restricted from hiring their services or funding memberships that include advocacy work.
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