Essentially, lobbyists provide three types of information to lawmakers. Initially, they identify current or proposed laws and regulations that are relevant to their client's interests, and then suggest ways that lawmakers can help. Secondly, they help policymakers understand how their constituents would be affected by a new policy and whether public opinion would support or oppose such a policy change. Finally, they offer technical information about the implications and possible effects of policy proposals.
Lobbying does not end once the policymaker is on board with an interest group's goal, however. In fact, this is just beginning. Lobbyists will see a bill through to its final conclusion, where it either dies in committee or gets passed into law. It is important to note that lobbyists and interest groups may make suggestions and sometimes even write a bill, but only legislators may introduce legislation and vote on a bill.
Study the table below to learn more about the specific actions taken by lobbyists to support legislation favorable to their clients.
| Conducting Research | Lobbyists may assist a lawmaker in reviewing the current laws (if there are any) related to the policy they are attempting to influence. |
| Suggesting Solutions | After researching existing laws, lobbyists help lawmakers determine possible legislative measures, such as changing the existing law or creating a new one. |
| Drafting the Bill | Lobbyists work with bill-drafting attorneys to create a viable piece of legislation and then present the bill to the appropriate committee in Congress. |
| Management | Lobbyists next help guide the bill through committee and floor votes in both houses; they also meet with other lawmakers to discuss the bill and keep it moving. |
| Veto-Proofing | Finally, a lobbyist might review a bill to ensure that it addresses the client's concerns, does not contain loopholes, and will be unlikely to be vetoed by the president. |
Complete the following activity to review the role of lobbyists in getting policy passed.
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Lobbyists cannot
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introduce legislation
draft legislation
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What information do lobbyists initially provide to lawmakers regrading a bill?
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the effects of the policy proposal on their constituents
predictions about whether the House will vote on the bill
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Which statement best describes a lobbyist's involvement with lawmaking?
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A lobbyist only finds a lawmaker to back the bill.
A lobbyist follows a bill through to its conclusion.
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A lobbyist's main goal is to
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influence policy-making
get people elected
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Complete
