Shareholder proposals on political issues—particularly lobbying spending disclosure and campaign finance issues—have been a common part of the proxy landscape for some time now. This proxy season, proposals seeking greater transparency around corporate political spending had surprising success compared to the past. This alert highlights that, especially given this development, companies should be aware of…

While historically criticized for inconsistency or opacity, the House Ethics Committee appears to be moving toward a more active and transparent enforcement posture.  Last week, the Committee adopted two reports finding Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) violated House ethics rules.  The reports together serve as a warning—both to Members of Congress…

Employees in the investor relations departments of hedge fund managers and private equity firms typically do not consider themselves “lobbyists.” But state and local regulators sometimes have a different view. This article, published in the Hedge Fund Law Report, explains the types of investor relations activities that could trigger lobbying requirements; summarizes the state…

At the start of each Congress, the House and Senate, along with the various committees in each chamber, adopt internal rules that govern their operations. Though many such rules remain unchanged from one Congress to another, the continued emphasis on congressional investigations across Capitol Hill lends new significance to even subtle changes in the rules…

Covington is pleased to announce that it has revised and updated its comprehensive 50-state survey of political laws for 2025.

Corporations, trade associations, non-profits, other organizations, and individuals face significant penalties and reputational harm if they violate federal or state laws governing corporate and personal political activities, the registration of lobbyists, lobbying reporting, or the…