|
Visit our Lobbying Compliance and Ethics
Compliance Resource Centers
Ohio Ethics Laws: Interaction With Public Officials
Ohio law restricts state and local officials and employees from accepting most
"gifts" from people with any interest before them. The Government Relations
Practice Group advises elected officials and public employees about these
restrictions. Bricker & Eckler also advises the private section about these
restrictions.
Lobbyist Registration and Reporting Advice
Bricker & Eckler attorneys advise clients regarding when they must register
with Ohio's Joint Legislative Ethics Committee as (1) a legislative agent who
lobbies before the Ohio General Assembly, or (2) an executive agency lobbyist
who lobbies before an Ohio executive branch department or agency.
Bricker & Eckler LLP attorneys advise individuals and associations regarding
state restrictions on providing gifts to state legislators and executive
officials and their staff. Because the firm's Government Relations attorneys
are also lobbyists, they are uniquely qualified to provide advice regarding the
complex registration and reporting requirements. The firm works closely with
the Joint Legislative Ethics Committee and the Ohio Ethics Commission to
provide clients with accurate interpretations and advice on implementation of
these laws.
Conflict of Interest and "Revolving Door" Advice
Bricker & Eckler LLP attorneys provide legal opinions to clients who are
interested matters before or are seeking business with state and local
government agencies. Due to a familial or prior or current professional
relationship, or other circumstance, conflicts of interest often arise.
Therefore, the firm advises clients on how to avoid or resolve these conflicts
of interest. Furthermore, the firm advises many businesses employing former
legislative or executive branch officials and staff regarding restrictions on
involvement with government matters in which the employee personally
participated when employed by the General Assembly or executive branch.
Non-Profit Corporation or Association Lobbying Tax Advice
Bricker & Eckler advises 501(c) organizations about how lobbying activities
affect their 501(c) tax-exempt status. IRS regulations differ according to the
501(c) organization's classification, and restrictions and reporting
requirements are complex. The firm's Government Relations attorneys and Federal
Tax attorneys work together to assist clients in determining what activities
they may pursue.
View our other services
|
