Federal Lobbying Disclosure Compliance – Background

On January 1, 2008, a new federal lobbying disclosure law took affect that requires more-stringent quarterly disclosure of lobbying activities and semiannual disclosure of certain political
contributions by lobbyists and certification of compliance with rules that govern gifts to and travel by covered federal officials. Failure to comply with the new laws could result in criminal penalties ($200,000
maximum fine and up to 5 years in prison). This web site has been established to educate Georgia Tech faculty, students and staff on the new law and to collect information about potential lobbying activities and contributions. Georgia Tech’s Office of Federal Relations is available to answer any questions that you may have.

On July 16, 2008, Congress issued new guidelines on the semiannual disclosure forms. If you have honored a covered federal official, please contact Robert Knotts in Georgia Tech’s Office of Federal Relations via email or (202) 756-3670. It is the responsibility of all Georgia Tech employees to understand and abide by Congressional rules regarding gifts to and travel by covered federal officials.

Additional links and information:

• Dr. Schuster’s memo to campus leadership on rules and reporting requirements
• GT Federal Lobbying Guidelines
• Form to Report Lobbying Activities
• House Office of the Clerk’s Amended Guide to the Lobbying Disclosure Act
• American Council on Education’s guidance on new lobbying rules