HB 7159 — OGSR; Commission on Ethics Audits and Investigations
by Government Operations Subcommittee and Rep. Patronis (SB 2056 by Rules Subcommittee on Ethics and Elections)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Rules Subcommittee on Ethics and Elections Committee (EE)
House Bill 7159 is the result of an Open Government Sunset Review of an existing exemption for records and meetings relating to an audit or investigation of lobbyists, principals of lobbyists, and lobbying firms who lobby the executive branch or the Constitution Revision Commission. The exemption applies only until either the Commission determines whether probable cause exists to believe a violation of the executive branch lobbying and reporting provisions occurred or until the subject of the audit or investigation waives confidentiality in writing. The bill permanently reenacts the existing exemption but clarifies that only portions of meetings conducted pursuant to such an audit or investigation are confidential. The clarification prevents the Commission from hearing otherwise public matters in a confidential or executive session.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect October 1, 2011.
Vote: Senate 38-0; House 113-0