HB32 Alabama 2016 1st Special Session Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Isaac Whorton

Republican

Session

First Special Session 2016

Title

Individual convicted of a felony, prevented from lobbying, Sec. 36-25-18 am'd.

Summary

HB32 would bar individuals convicted of a felony from registering as lobbyists unless they meet specified conditions, while preserving existing lobbyist registration rules.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill prevents anyone convicted of a felony in federal court or state court from registering as a lobbyist unless they are off probation, have paid all fines, court costs, and restitution, and have had their voting rights restored. It also keeps the current lobbyist registration framework, including the deadline, the $100 annual fee, and the required information and disclosures. There is a transitional rule that affects felons convicted before the act’s effective date, and the act becomes effective immediately upon governor approval with severability preserved.

Who It Affects

• Individuals convicted of a felony in federal court or in a state court who want to register as lobbyists; they would be prohibited from registering unless they meet the specified conditions (probation status, payments, and voting rights restoration).
• People who lobby or plan to lobby in Alabama (lobbyists and public employees who lobby, as well as their principals) who must register and file the required information, pay the $100 fee, and comply with ongoing registration requirements.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits a felon from registering as a lobbyist unless the individual is no longer on probation, has paid all fines, court costs, and restitution, and has had voting rights restored.
• Adds a transitional provision stating that individuals convicted of a felony who were not registered before the act’s effective date may not register unless they meet the same conditions described above.
• Maintains existing registration requirements: lobbyists must register by January 31 each year or within 10 days of starting lobbying, pay a $100 annual fee, and provide specified information about themselves, their principals, and the scope of lobbying.
• Provides that the act becomes effective immediately after the Governor’s approval and includes severability language.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes and Offenses