ALBANY — Although the New York State Temporary Commission on Lobbying has the authority to assess penalties of up to $25,000 per violation of filing requirements, the agency views itself more as a monitor than a regulator. It was established as an independent, temporary body in 1977 and assumed oversight responsibility that had previously been the jurisdiction of the Secretary of State.
The Lobbying Act created a bipartisan commission of six members. The Senate Majority Leader, Assembly Speaker and minority leaders of both houses nominate four candidates for appointment by the Governor. The Governor selects two commissioners, one from each party. All of the commissioners serve two-year terms. The chairman and vice chairman are elected by the members of the commission for one-year terms and must be from different political parties.
