May 1, 2019
You probably have heard of lobbying, and you may even have heard about it in your industry. Chances are highly likely that some form of lobbying has been affecting you, your business, and your industry. Here, we lay out what you need to know and how a New Jersey lobbyist can help your business.
What is a lobbyist?
Each state defines lobbyists in different ways but simply put, a lobbyist is a person who receives compensation to educate, advocate, influence, and promote or oppose an interest group’s opinions or ideas in front of executive branch officials, legislators, and the public.
What does a lobbyist do?
- Persuade legislators
- Petition the government
- Communicate with members of Congress
- Research and analyze legislation and its effects
- Stay aware of all new and future regulatory proposals
- Attend congressional hearings
- Educate government officials on specific causes and topics
- Change public opinion through advertising campaigns or by influencing ‘opinion leaders’
Do I need a lobbyist?
Everyone is affected by lobbying, positively or negatively. Both sides to any argument can and do hire lobbyists. This is protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution that guarantees the right to free speech, assembly, and petition.
Having a lobbyist in your corner can help your business grow, gain clients, win public approval, and acquire government contracts or benefits.
Who hires lobbyists?
Nearly every interest group, institution, or business works with lobbyists in some capacity.
- Energy companies
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Labor unions
- Corporations
- Colleges and universities
- Religious institutions and churches
- Charitable organizations
- State, local or foreign governments
- Environmental groups
- Senior citizens organizations
- Women’s groups
How much did interest groups spend on New Jersey lobbyists in 2018?
The above chart was provided by the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commision (ELEC) in their annual report of lobbying spending in New Jersey. This chart highlights the strength of spending within each industry.
Whether you are the head of an energy company or part of a citizens group looking to make change, hiring a New Jersey lobbyist is the best method to bring your interests to the forefront of public and government awareness.
If you work with PSI, we can develop comprehensive strategies for your interests, advocate on your behalf, voice your opinions in front of key decision makers, and help grow your business. Contact us today.