MT HB938

Lobbyists representing state or local government agencies or nongovernmental organizations must file a sworn disclosure identifying whether the agency or organization receives federal money before commencing lobbying activities, along with a $10 filing fee

Lobbyists must verify under oath that their compensation is not derived from federal money, supported by documentation tracing the receipt and use of federal funds by the agency or organization

Noncompliant lobbyists face existing penalties under Montana lobbying law, and knowingly filing false statements constitutes the offense of unsworn falsification to authorities

Adds statutory definitions for "federal money" (any money appropriated by Congress) and "nongovernmental organization" (private organizations operating outside government control for advocacy purposes)

Takes effect immediately upon passage and approval, with filing fees deposited into the state general fund