Puerto Rico legislature approves comprehensive lobbying registration law for transparency

In a significant move towards enhancing transparency in government operations, the Puerto Rico House of Representatives discussed and advanced a new bill aimed at regulating lobbying activities within the territory. The proposed legislation, known as Bill 42, seeks to establish a comprehensive registry for lobbyists and entities engaged in lobbying efforts across all branches of government, including the executive and judicial branches.

During the meeting, Victor Paredes, the President of the Government Commission, emphasized the importance of this initiative as part of the Progressive Party's commitment to transparency. He highlighted that the bill would require all lobbyists to register with the Department of State, ensuring that any individual or organization involved in lobbying activities is officially recognized and accountable. This move is designed to prevent any potential conflicts of interest and to uphold public trust in governmental processes.

Key provisions of the bill include mandatory registration for lobbyists, which will involve an annual fee and the obligation to keep their information updated. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in penalties, reinforcing the seriousness of adhering to the new standards. Additionally, the legislation imposes a one-year cooling-off period for former elected officials and government executives, prohibiting them from lobbying on matters they previously handled while in office.

The bill aims to create a transparent environment where citizens can easily access information about who is lobbying their government representatives. Paredes assured that the registry would be available to the public at no cost, allowing residents to stay informed about lobbying activities that may affect their communities.

As the discussion progressed, representatives expressed their support for the bill, recognizing its potential to restore public confidence in government operations. The unanimous approval in the Government Commission signals a strong commitment to implementing these transparency measures.

This legislative action marks a pivotal step in addressing concerns about lobbying practices in Puerto Rico, aligning with broader goals of accountability and ethical governance. As the bill moves forward, it is expected to foster a more open and responsible political landscape, ultimately benefiting the residents of Puerto Rico.