Newton Councilors Propose Lobby Registration System: Report

NEWTON, MA – Three Newton city councilors have joined to propose a city ordinance requiring lobbyists to register with the city clerk ahead of communicating with elected or appointed officials.

First obtained by the Newton TAB, the draft, spearheaded by Ward 3 Councilor at-large Jim Cote and backed by councilors Emily Norton and Jay Harney, would require lobbyists to register with the city, detail the actions or docket items they are lobbying for and divulge their compensation.

According to the draft, the purpose of the proposal is to "preserve the integrity and transparency of the democratic process, by mandating the registration of those who are hired to promote and influence a legislative agenda."

The ordinance would not apply to local, state, or government officials, individuals or groups advocating on their own behalf and representatives of nonprofit organizations.

>>>Read the full report from the Newton TAB

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