Q. How do I know if I need a lobbyist?

Q. What does a lobbyist do?

Q. My company has a problem but we don’t know the best solution or strategy. Can PPA help us decide on the best solution and develop a strategy to overcome this problem?

Q. We need a firm that can be our “eyes and ears” in California State Government so we know what is happening and what we can anticipate happening before it does. Can PPA help us with that?

Q. Our company is getting requests for campaign contributions, but we are not sure if we are giving wisely or effectively. Can PPA advise us on this?

Q. Are there reporting requirements involving the hiring of a lobbying firm?

Q. What do lobbyist services cost?

Q. How do you measure the success of a lobbyist?

Q. How do you compare lobbying firms?

Q. What is PPA’s approach to client needs?

Q. How do I know if I need a lobbyist?
A. Companies and organizations usually hire a lobbyist if they want state government to do to – or NOT to do – something they care about. Companies also hire lobbyists to be their “eyes and ears” in the Capitol and in state agencies, to monitor and report on what is happening in areas of interest to them. And some companies also hire lobbyists to raise the profile of the company among decision makers. Lobbyists have specialized knowledge about how decisions get made in the Capitol and in state agencies and know how to favorably influence them. PPA has represented all manner of clients, from an individual property owner with a local government issue to some of the biggest of the Fortune 500 companies, trade associations, and government entities.

Q. What does a lobbyist do?
A. A lobbyist influences legislative and regulatory actions on behalf of his or her clients. A lobbyist is a link between client and policy maker. A lobbyist distills positions and presents them in a context understood by the political mind. A lobbyist creates strategies, meets with policy makers, negotiates with other interests, prepares position papers, drafts legislative and regulatory language, testifies before legislative committees and regulatory agencies, and builds stakeholder coalitions. Lobbyists closely monitor legislative developments and regulatory/agency proposals in areas of interest to the client to ensure that actions are not being taken without the knowledge of the client. Lobbyists usually provide frequent status reports with this information, both in writing and verbally. Lobbyists will work to raise the profile and perception of the client among decision makers, and increase their influence. Lobbyists will also work to raise awareness among decision-makers of the issues that matter most to clients.

Q. My company has a problem but we don’t know the best solution or strategy. Can PPA help us decide on the best solution and develop a strategy to overcome this problem?
A. Yes, in fact one of the most important services that lobbyists provide is to assist in the development of a strategy or plan to resolve specific problems or issues. Lobbyists are specialists in getting things done in the Legislature or in state agencies; they understand the issues, the politics, the process, and the people that define how decisions are made. Lobbyists can describe the options, possible risks and rewards, and recommend the solution which the best profile for success.

Q. We need a firm that can be our “eyes and ears” in California State Government so we know what is happening and what we can anticipate happening before it does. Can PPA help us with that?
A. Yes. Some entities retain PPA to monitor, but not lobby. PPA’s eight lobbyists are in the Capitol and in the state agencies, communicating with legislators and other officials, every day of the week. PPA anticipates and follows all major political events and carefully watches trends in the issues of concerns. PPA will provide regular reports back to the client, either verbally or in writing, as frequently as is desired.

Q. Our company is getting requests for campaign contributions, but we are not sure if we are giving wisely or effectively. Can PPA advise us on this?
A. Political contributions are often part of effective legislative strategies. PPA advises its clients about likely winners and losers, suggests appropriate contributions, and makes certain that clients always conform to California election reporting laws.

Q. Are there reporting requirements involving the hiring of a lobbying firm?
A. Yes. California’s Political Reform Act is designed to make certain that the public knows who, on what issues, is trying to influence government action and how much is being paid for that.  PPA has an employee who works nearly full time ensuring client compliance and also contracts with a Certified Public Accountant who compiles reports for clients.  With just minimal client input, this complex process is simplified for each client.

Q. What do lobbyist services cost?
A. Lobbying fees are determined based upon the level of work that the client wants. PPA works closely with prospective clients to understand and define their objectives, and then to prepare a strategic workplan which will accomplish those objectives at the lowest possible cost. Since client objectives very widely — some project specific, some for comprehensive services — lobbying fees very widely as well. We are confident that we can develop a workplan and services which will fit within your budget.

Q. How do you measure the success of a lobbyist?
A. Success is defined by the individual client, depending upon what the client wants to accomplish.  Some client’s goals are defensive, preventing negative things from happening; while others are proactive, sponsoring legislation or proposing agency actions.  Others are looking to maintain a presence in Sacramento with the Legislature and/or State agencies.  Ultimately, the client decides if the lobbying firm they have hired is meeting their needs and expectations.  At PPA we pride ourselves in our long-standing relationships with our clients.

Q. How do you compare lobbying firms?
A. Ask questions.  Does the firm have sufficient personnel and other resources to handle your account?  Does it have any conflicts?  Does it have a track record?  Who in the firm is going to handle your account?  What do its existing and former clients say about the firm?

Q. What is PPA’s approach to client needs?
A. PPA takes a strategic approach to every issue, working with clients to:

• Define clear objectives
• Identify decision-makers and influencers
• Develop strong arguments and persuasive messages
• Implement strategic advocacy efforts

For more information contact Public Policy Advocates at (916) 441-0702.