MN SF2562

Expands the definition of "lobbyist" to include individuals working for government relations firms whose job duties involve consulting or advising on government affairs services, even if they don't directly communicate with officials

Narrows the "expert witness" exemption from lobbyist registration to only apply when communications occur at public meetings or are made publicly available (excluding Public Utilities Commission proceedings)

Requires lobbyists to report expert witnesses they request to communicate with officials, including the witness's name, employer, government entity contacted, and subject matter

Expands conflict of interest disclosure and economic interest statement requirements to elected local officials in political subdivisions with populations over 50,000 in the seven-county metro area

Removes county commissioners, watershed district managers, and soil and water conservation district supervisors from the definition of "public official" but requires them to file economic interest statements with the Campaign Finance Board