Step-by-Step Guide to Registering as a Lobbyist in Austin

Introduction

Registering as a lobbyist in Austin, Texas, involves a series of steps mandated by the City Code Chapter 4-8 (Regulation of Lobbyists). This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the registration process, ensuring compliance with local regulations. Whether you are an individual or represent a business entity, understanding and following these steps is crucial for lawful lobbying activities in Austin.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before beginning the registration process, it is essential to determine if you meet the requirements to register as a lobbyist. According to City Code Chapter 4-8, a person must register if they are compensated or reimbursed to communicate with city officials to influence municipal questions or decisions.

Step 2: Submit the Lobbyist Contact Form

The first formal step in the registration process is to submit the Lobbyist Contact Form. This form collects basic information about the lobbyist or the business entity. The Clerk’s Office uses this information to create an account in the E-Filing System.

How to Submit:

Online Submission: Visit the City of Austin’s official website and fill out the Lobbyist Contact Form.
Information Required: Name, address, email, and other contact details.

Step 3: Receive E-Filing System Credentials

Within two business days of submitting the Lobbyist Contact Form, you will receive an email from the Clerk’s Office containing your login credentials for the E-Filing System. This system is used for filing registration reports, quarterly activity reports, and paying fees.

Step 4: File the Registration Report

Once you have access to the E-Filing System, the next step is to file a registration report. This report requires detailed information about your lobbying activities, including the clients you represent and the municipal questions you are addressing.

Information to Include:

Lobbyist Information: Full name, business address, email, and phone number.
Client Information: Names and addresses of clients or employers.
Lobbying Activities: Description of the municipal questions or issues you are lobbying on.

Step 5: Pay the Registration Fee

After filing the registration report, you must pay the associated registration fee. The fee can be paid online through the E-Filing System using a credit card, or in-person/by mail using cash, check, or money order.

Payment Methods:

Online: Credit card payments via the E-Filing System.
In-Person: Schedule an appointment by emailing.
Mail: Ensure payments are postmarked more than two weeks before the filing deadline to avoid late fees.

Step 6: Confirm Registration

Your registration is complete once the registration report is filed and the fee is paid. Failure to pay the registration fee within ten days of filing the report will result in a $50 late fee, with potential additional late fees of up to $500 for each infraction.

Step 7: File Quarterly Activity Reports

Registered lobbyists must file quarterly activity reports detailing their lobbying activities during the reporting period. These reports are due on specific dates throughout the year and must be submitted through the E-Filing System.

Report Contents:

Lobbying Activities: Meetings with city officials, communications, and expenditures.
Compensation: Details of compensation or reimbursement received for lobbying activities.

Step 8: Maintain Compliance

To maintain compliance, ensure all reports are filed on time and all fees are paid. Late fees can accumulate, and outstanding fees must be settled before submitting new reports.

Step 9: Terminate Registration (If Needed)

If you no longer wish to be registered as a lobbyist, you must formally terminate your registration. Contact the Lobbyist Coordinator to initiate the termination process.

Termination Steps:

Final Activity Report: File a final activity report covering the last quarter of lobbying activities.
Confirmation: Once the final report is filed, you will receive confirmation that your registration is terminated.

Additional Considerations

Corrections to Filed Reports

If you need to correct any information in previously filed reports, you can do so through the E-Filing System. For reports filed before June 2021, contact the Lobbyist Coordinator for assistance.

FAQs and Support

The City of Austin provides a comprehensive FAQ section and support resources to assist lobbyists with registration and reporting requirements. These resources can be found on the official City of Austin website.

Conclusion

Registering as a lobbyist in Austin requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the City Code Chapter 4-8. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure compliance with local regulations and effectively manage your lobbying activities. For additional support, consult the resources provided by the City of Austin or seek legal counsel if necessary.