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CS/CS/HB 7001 — Implementation of the Constitutional Prohibition Against Lobbying by a Public Officer
by Rules Committee; State Affairs Committee; Public Integrity and Elections Committee; and Rep. Koster
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Ethics and Elections Committee (EE)
The bill creates ss. 112.3121 and 112.3122, F.S., to implement the constitutional amendment prohibiting lobbying by certain public officers both during public office and for a six-year period following vacation of public office. The bill provides definitions for terms that have no clear constitutional definition. It provides that the prohibitions apply to persons in public office on or after December 31, 2022. It authorizes the Commission on Ethics to investigate and determine violations of the new prohibitions. The bill provides a range of penalties for violations and directs the Commission to report post-service lobbying violations and recommended punishment to the Governor for imposition of penalties. Finally, it authorizes the Chief Financial Officer and Attorney General independently to collect monetary penalties imposed.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect December 31, 2022.
Vote: Senate 39-0; House 117-0