House Bill 273 Summary

• Expands the definition of "lobbying" to include attempting to influence procurement of materials, services, or construction by an agency, and promoting or attempting to influence awarding of grants or contracts with state or local government entities.

• Broadens the definition of "lobbyist" to include individuals employed by or contracted with private entities who provide consulting services while also engaging in lobbying activities, and those attempting to influence local governing authorities, county boards of supervisors, utility districts, water boards, and sewer boards.

• Specifies that individuals described in the expanded lobbyist definition shall not qualify for exemptions under Section 5-8-7 of the Mississippi Code.

• Takes effect July 1, 2021.