HARRISBURG, Pa., Jan. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of the Commonwealth Pedro A. Cortes said the Department of State has made important information available for those engaging in lobbying activities.

"Governor Rendell believes in making the public process transparent, and registering lobbyists is a key step toward open disclosure," said Secretary Cortes.

On Jan. 1, 2007, as required by the Lobbying Disclosure Act (Act 134 of 2006), all lobbyists, lobbying firms and principals had to begin registering with the Department of State within 10 days of any lobbying activity. Registrations must be done separately, and renewed biennially.

Registration forms-and instructions for completing and submitting forms- are available from the department's Web site, http://www.dos.state.pa.us/. Under the "Look What's Hot" heading, click the "Lobbying Disclosure" link.

The Web site contains a Frequently Asked Questions page that defines lobbyists, lobbying firms and principals; registration requirements; and filing deadlines for expense reports. A summary of Act 134 is also provided.

The act exempts certain types of individuals from registering as a lobbyist. These exemptions are listed in the instructions.

Additional information on lobbying disclosure requirements is available through the Department's Bureau of Commissions, Elections and Legislation at (717) 787-5280.

CONTACT: Leslie Amoros Cathy Ennis (717) 783-1621

CONTACT: Leslie Amoros or Cathy Ennis, +1-717-783-1621

Web site: http://www.state.pa.us/
http://www.dos.state.pa.us/