REGINA – Legislation is coming to Saskatchewan that would require paid lobbyists to register their activities.
Under the Act, people paid to lobby elected officials on behalf of organizations or groups will be required to register their lobbying activities online.
“Saskatchewan people should know who is lobbying the government and the creation of a public registry will disclose that information,” said Justice Minister Gordon Wyant in a release.
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“At the same time, this legislation recognizes that lobbying public office holders is a legitimate democratic activity.”
Unpaid individuals such as volunteers and members of the public pursuing personal interests would be exempt from the legislation.
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Individuals working in their official capacity on behalf of municipalities or organizations may also be exempt from the Act.
The Conflict of Interest Commissioner will oversee the Act and ensure compliance by lobbyists.
The legislation came out of recommendations from the Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice and with consultations with stakeholders.
Most provinces currently have a lobbyist registry.
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