The Public Ethics Law defines lobbying as "communicating with a public official of the legislative or executive branch of county government for the purpose of influencing legislative or executive action." (§ 7-1-501, Baltimore County Code, 2003) The same section of the Code contains an extensive definition of "lobbyist." A person who thinks that he or she engages in lobbying should consult the Baltimore County Code, 2003 to determine whether that person falls under the definition of lobbyist.
Each lobbyist is required to file a lobbying registration form (PDF) with the Ethics Commission on or before the year in which the lobbyist expects to engage in lobbying or within 5 days after engaging in lobbying activities. (§ 7-1-502 of the Baltimore County Code, 2003)
Each lobbyist is also required to file a report of the lobbyist's activities (PDF) during the preceding year on or before January 31 of each year. (§ 7-1-506, Baltimore County Code, 2003)
A lobbyist who fails to submit these forms is subject to criminal prosecution that may result in a fine up to $1,000, up to 90 days in jail or both.
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Revised May 11, 2005
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