W. Va. Code R. § 158-12-3

Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024

Section 158-12-3 - Registration

3.1. Before engaging in any lobbying activity, or within thirty (30) days after being employed as a lobbyist, whichever occurs first, a lobbyist shall register with the West Virginia Ethics Commission by filing a lobbyist registration statement.

3.2. The Ethics Commission will notify lobbyists in writing when their registration is completed. Lobbying prior to registration is a violation of W. Va. Code § 6B-3-9(b).

3.3. A lobbyist must register on forms provided by the Commission. Lobbyists may not submit registration and reporting forms by facsimile machine (FAX).

3.4. The Commission will process registration forms within one business day of receipt. The Commission will return incomplete applications without action and lobbying privileges will be delayed.

3.5. An application for registration requires the submission of all the following:

3.5.a. A completed, signed Lobbyist Registration Statement.

3.5.b. One recent 2" x 2" passport style photograph of the lobbyist.

3.5.c. A check, money order or credit card payment for the one hundred dollar ($100) base registration fee, required by W. Va. Code § 6B-3-3(a), payable to the WV Ethics Commission.

3.5.d. A completed, signed Statement of Representation for each entity the lobbyist represents.

3.5.e. A check, or money order or credit card payment for one hundred dollars ($100), payable to the WV Ethics Commission, shall accompany each Statement of Representation filed with the Commission.

3.5.f. The Commission may accept payment through credit or debit cards for any fees or penalties authorized under this rule.

3.6. A lobbyist's registration statement and notices of representation shall remain in effect until the Monday preceding the second Wednesday in January of each odd-numbered year unless the lobbyist terminates his or her registration or is suspended for failure to comply with the requirements of the Ethics Act and related legislative rules. Until a lobbyist has renewed his or her registration, and has filed any required notices of representation, the person may not engage in lobbying activities, unless he or she is otherwise exempt under the provisions of this rule.

3.7. Lobbyists must report in writing any change, withdrawal or termination of employment or representation to the Commission within one week, by filing an amended registration statement reflecting such change, modification or termination.

3.8. Lobbyists who elect to terminate their registration and cease to lobby may do so by filing a Notice of Termination with the Commission within one week of the termination.

3.9. Any person wishing to engage in lobbying activities may register as a lobbyist with the Commission, notwithstanding there is no requirement to do so.

W. Va. Code R. § 158-12-3