No Strong Indication That Restrictions on Executive Branch Lobbying Should Be Expanded
GGD-84-46
Published: Mar 20, 1984. Publicly Released: Apr 20, 1984.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO surveyed executive branch agencies and congressional staffs to determine: (1) what types of agency lobbying activities are considered permissible by congressional staffs and agency legislative liaison personnel, and what types are impermissible; and (2) whether more extensive controls over agency lobbying activities are warranted.
Recommendations
Matter for Congressional Consideration
| Matter | Status | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| While GAO is not recommending new statutory restraints on executive branch lobbying, Congress should enact one of the currently temporary appropriation restrictions on indirect lobbying into permanent law as section 1352, title 31, United States Code. GAO proposes the following provision: "Except as otherwise provided by law, an appropriation may not be used other than for activities that involve direct communications between executive and legislative branch officials: (1) for publicity and propaganda purposes, for the preparation, distribution, or use of any kit, pamphlet, booklet, publication, radio, television, or film presentation designed to support or defeat legislation pending before the Congress; and (2) to pay the salary or expenses of any grant or contract recipient or agent acting for such recipient to engage in any activity designed to influence legislation or appropriations pending before the Congress." |
Closed – Not Implemented
|
Congressional members expressed interest in the report, but no legislation has been enacted to implement the recommendation, and passage of such legislation is not expected. |
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Topics
executive relationsEthical conductLegislative proceduresLobbying activitiesStatutory lawLobbyingCongressional employeesAppropriated fundsMilitary forcesPublic relations