League Asks Lobbyists to Adopt its Code as Standard for Profession

 

The American League of Lobbyist's (ALL) has its own Code of Ethics. According to the league, ethics is nothing new to ALL or its members, as it adopted its first official Code of Ethics many years ago, well before recent scandals. ALL actively encourages the advancement of ethical lobbying practices. Its Code has been recognized as an important document that serves to strengthen the image of lobbyists and enhances the role of lobbying as a vital and respected link in the democratic process.

 

•I would point out that our Code is not a reaction to the recent scandal as we've had a code for 19 years.  It is something we believe in and a big reason why lobbyists join ALL.  I think many lobbyists like being affiliated with an organization that promotes high ethical standards,• stated ALL President Paul Miller.

 

•Our profession has been unfairly attacked for years but never more than recently.  The reason is simple; the public does not understand what lobbyists do or how vital our role is in the democratic process&We extend an open invitation to ALL lobbyists to join the league in supporting our code of ethics,• stated Miller. 

 

 

ALL adopted its first code of ethics in September 1987.  Following is the current version which has been updated twice to provide basic standards of lobbying conduct.

 

ARTICLE I - HONESTY / INTEGRITY

ARTICLE II - COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS, REGULATIONS / RULES

ARTICLE III - PROFESSIONALISM

ARTICLE IV - CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

ARTICLE V - DUE DILIGENCE / BEST EFFORTS

ARTICLE VI - COMPENSATION AND ENGAGEMENT TERMS

ARTICLE VII - CONFIDENTIALITY

ARTICLE VIII - PUBLIC EDUCATION

ARTICLE IX - DUTY TO GOVERNMENTAL INSTITUTIONS

 

To get a copy of ALL's Code of Ethics log onto its website at http://www.alldc.org/ethicscode.cfm.

 

•It is also my hope that every lobbyist will join with ALL by subscribing to its Code.  As the old saying goes, together we can make a real difference, whereas individuals we cannot.  Joining with ALL will send a real statement to the public that the lobbying profession is continuing to do its part to live by a higher ethical standard in Washington,• Miller concluded.

 

Established in 1979 as a nonprofit organization, The American League of Lobbyists (ALL) is the national professional association dedicated exclusively to lobbying.  ALL's mission is to enhance the development of professionalism, competence and high ethical standards for advocates in the public policy arena, and to collectively address challenges affecting the first amendment right to •petition the government for redress of grievances.•