Calendar of Events

Webinars for Wise Nonprofits: Careful Lobbying Compliance: Keeping Track of the Required Reports and Restrictions on Lobbyists' Activities

Nonprofits that register as lobbyists in New York State or New York City because they use their own employees to lobby on behalf of the organization are expected to file the same reports, and adhere to the same code of conduct, as professional lobbying firms. They must register with and report to both NY State and NYC even if they only lobby in NYC, and even if their advocacy is aimed solely at city agencies, not the state legislature or City Council. Nonprofit lobbyists that invite elected officials to conferences or fundraising dinners must comply with the ban on gifts to public servants. Those that register with NY State must disclose board members' business relationships with state employees and elected officials. Employees registered with NYC must report on fundraising events they host for City Council candidates on their own time and abide by the City's code of ethics for lobbyists. This webinar will explain NY State and NYC's requirements for nonprofit organizations that register as lobbyists and will provide practical tips for complying with these often confusing rules.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to identify the obligations of a nonprofit organization registered as a lobbyist, and develop practical strategies to ensure compliance.

For nonprofit managers, organizers, and others involved in the day-to-day operation of not-for-profit tax-exempt organizations in New York.

Presenter: Laura Abel, Senior Policy Counsel