Tuesday, January 26, 2010                                        

For More Information:

Rep. Olson, 515-281-3221                                                                                                     

Dean Fiihr, 515-281-0817

HOUSE APPROVES NEW ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES FOR LOBBYISTS, SPECIAL INTERESTS

Des Moines, Iowa – In a move to hold special interests and lobbyists accountable, the Iowa House today approved a package of new requirements for lobbyists and special interest groups. 

“Iowans deserve nothing less than full disclosure from special interest groups that lobby the Iowa Legislature.  The reforms approved today will ensure we collect accurate, relevant data from groups while increasing public access to the information.  We will also have new tools to ensure lobbyists are complying with Iowa law,” said State Representative Tyler Olson of Cedar Rapids.

House File 2109, which was approved on a unanimous vote in the Iowa House, includes pre-registration of legislative receptions, requiring special interests to disclose the amount of money they spend on lobbying activities, and expanded powers for the House Ethics Committee. 

The bill now goes to the Senate.