Speaker Series - Washington, DC (April 30, 2009)

NOTE:  THIS EVENT PREDATES CHANGES IN WHITE HOUSE POLICY.  THE PORTIONS OF THE VIDEO AND HANDOUTS DEALING WITH THE RECOVERY ACT ARE NOW OUTDATED.

 

On Friday, May 29, 2009, the Obama Administration changed the rules for lobbyists and others regarding the Recovery Act.  As stated in the White House’s blog post announcing the change:  

 

“First, we will expand the restriction on oral communications to cover all persons, not just federally registered lobbyists.  For the first time, we will reach contacts not only by registered lobbyists but also by unregistered ones, as well as anyone else exerting influence on the process.  We concluded this was necessary under the unique circumstances of the stimulus program.

“Second, we will focus the restriction on oral communications to target the scenario where concerns about merit-based decision-making are greatest –after competitive grant applications are submitted and before awards are made.  Once such applications are on file, the competition should be strictly on the merits.  To that end, comments (unless initiated by an agency official) must be in writing and will be posted on the Internet for every American to see.

“Third, we will continue to require immediate internet disclosure of all other communications with registered lobbyists.  If registered lobbyists have conversations or meetings before an application is filed, a form must be completed and posted to each agency’s website documenting the contact.”

 

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April 30th marked the end of President Obama’s first 100 days in office.  As the Obama Administration and Congress continue to work on an ambitious domestic agenda, many nonprofits and foundations want a seat at the policy table to ensure their constituents’ voices are heard during this critical time. 

In recognition of these historic first 100 days, Alliance for Justice hosted a Speaker Series event featuring attorneys Michael Trister and Holly Schadler (Lichtman, Trister & Ross, PLLC) discussing how nonprofits may work with the new administration while staying within the legal boundaries of federal tax and election law.

 

Since the rules ahve changed in the last few months, we have removed the video recording of this event.

 

If you have any questions related to the federal tax and election laws associated with these activities, please call our Technical Assistance hotline free-of-charge at 1-866-NPLOBBY or e-mail advocacy@afj.org.