Federal Lobbying: Comments on the Adequacy of Federal Lobbying Laws

GAO discussed its views on the adequacy of federal lobbying laws and regulations, focusing on: (1) whether sufficient data exist to identify the lobbying activities of former senior government officials or members of Congress; (2) the number of former congressional members and senior officials involved in lobbying activities in the last 3 years; and (3) the extent of lobbying activities in the legislative and executive branches. GAO noted that: (1) there is not adequate data to determine the extent of lobbying activities in the legislative and executive branches; (2) current lobbying legislation lacks adequate enforcement authority, does not require lobbyists to supply information concerning prior governmental service, and would not be effective even if such information were required due to legislative limitations and exemptions; (3) many former members who are not registered lobbyists are engaged in lobbying activities; and (4) Congress could maximize its efforts to curb former congressional and senior government official lobbying activities by coordinating its efforts with ongoing lobbying legislation.