IL HB1971

Amends the Lobbyist Registration Act by adding Section 3.2 to require reporting of certain media expenditures related to utilities regulation.

Requires any person or entity making expenditures on or after July 1, 2021 for television, print, online, radio, or direct mail advertising to report to the Secretary of State if the advertising aims to influence actions related to the Illinois Public Utilities Act or Illinois Power Agency Act.

Reports must be filed by June 30 of the year in which the expenditure is made and must disclose the expenditure amount and the source of funds used.

Exempts certain media organizations and persons already exempt under Section 3(2) of the Lobbyist Registration Act.

Establishes that knowing failure to comply with reporting requirements constitutes a violation subject to penalties under Section 10 of the Act.