State and Federal Communications shares report on states’ response to Supreme Court's decision

Jul 14 2010

State and Federal Communications, Inc. -- which provides government affairs compliance information and consulting -- is sharing a report on how states are responding to the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission.

To view the report, go to www.stateandfed.com and click on the "Citizens United Update" in the lower left of the home page. The report is free and available to the public.

The report tracks new and updated laws, and pending legislation, in every state responding to the Jan. 21, 2010, Supreme Court decision. The court's ruling had the practical effect of removing restrictions from corporations, labor unions, and others in making independent expenditures and electioneering communications regarding candidates.

"Back in January, we said the most important developments would come when the various states began reacting to the court's decision. Our research team has found many states are responding with new legislation, while others are loosening rules and regulations in place for years," said Elizabeth Z. Bartz, president and CEO of State and Federal Communications.

"Rules are changing all the time. Corporations, trade and professional organizations, labor unions, and government affairs professionals need to stay current on these changes to ensure they do not inadvertently violate recently passed legislation," Bartz said.

"Updated and accurate information is of vital importance. That is why we are sharing this report with the public," Bartz added.

The State and Federal Communications document -- researched and developed by the firm's in-house staff of government affairs compliance experts -- is broken down by state and includes:

• Court decisions affecting particular laws in the states.

• Rules state commissions and ethics administrators have put into place.

• Opinions issued by state authorities in charge of campaign finance rules.

"We provide this information to our clients, along with comprehensive resources on the rules and regulations in the areas of lobbying, procurement lobbying, and political activities," Bartz said.

"We help our clients stay compliant. That's our mission."