Board considers lobbyist registration policy to enhance transparency in Orange County

The Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) Board convened on February 15, 2025, to discuss the implementation of a lobbyist registration policy, a topic that has gained traction in light of recent procurement events. The meeting highlighted the absence of a formal registration standard for lobbyists interacting with school boards, despite similar policies in other large Florida districts such as Broward, Hillsborough, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach.

Board members expressed support for establishing a lobbyist registration policy, emphasizing its potential benefits for transparency. Member Gallo noted the importance of knowing who is registered as a lobbyist, especially during conferences where numerous vendors are present. The discussion also touched on the challenges board members face in documenting interactions with lobbyists, with some members questioning the current reporting requirements and whether they are overly stringent.

Legal counsel clarified that the registration process is driven by individual lobbyists rather than the entities they represent. Lobbyists must register annually, but the onus is on them to ensure compliance. The board discussed the need for a more streamlined process, including the possibility of creating a searchable database for registered lobbyists, which would aid board members in verifying the status of individuals seeking to influence school board decisions.

Additionally, the board addressed concerns regarding the prohibition of vendors covering travel expenses for OCPS employees attending conferences. It was clarified that while vendors can invite employees to conferences, any travel or attendance must be pre-approved to avoid conflicts of interest.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of a lobbyist registration policy, with further discussions anticipated to refine the process and ensure compliance among all parties involved. The board aims to enhance transparency and accountability in its dealings with lobbyists, aligning its practices with those of other public entities in Florida.