IL HB4317

Amends the Lobbyist Registration Act to remove the blanket exemption for units of local government and school districts from lobbyist registration requirements.

Adds new exemption (1.5) allowing elected or appointed officials and employees of local governments or school districts to lobby on behalf of their employer without registration when acting within the scope of their public office or employment.

Removes former exemption (1.4) that completely exempted local government and school district entities from registration obligations.

Maintains existing exemptions for witnesses testifying before committees without compensation, news media employees, state government employees, legislators, attorneys in judicial proceedings, and vendors selling goods or services under specified conditions.

Requires the Secretary of State to establish rules listing entities required to register and allows the Secretary to reject exemption claims and require registration despite certification.