Compliance
A Guide for Understanding Time Sensitive Lobbying Reports and Deadlines by State
July 2, 2026 | Ben Zuegel
A dozen states require lobbyists to file time sensitive reports triggered by specific expenditures, events, or lobbying activities, in addition to their regularly scheduled compliance deadlines. Several states mandate lobbyist expenditure disclosure within 15 to 48 hours of spending thresholds, ranging from $100 in Idaho for indirect lobbying to $5,000 in Nebraska for monthly expenses during session. Colorado, Delaware, and Wisconsin require lobbyists to report their positions on bills or governmental actions within 3 to 15 days, with Iowa uniquely requiring declarations before lobbying begins. Maryland and Tennessee require event disclosure reports when lobbyists host gatherings for all legislators or committee members, with pre-event notices due 5 to 7 days before and post-event expenditure reports due 14 to 30 days after. Grassroots lobbying reporting requirements in states like Washington and New Mexico are triggered when spending on public campaigns reaches $1,500 to $3,000, with 24 to 48-hour filing deadlines during legislative sessions.