Since 1997-98, the state of Wisconsin has maintained an online database of lobbying actities, allowing the public to monitor -- in real time -- efforts to influence the Legislature. The lobbying database was created by the former Wisconsin Ethics Board, which is now part of the Government Accountability Board.
In 2000, the prestigious Innovations in American Government Awards program sponsored by Harvard University and the Ford Foundation selected the Wisconsin Ethics Board's Lobbyists-on-Line program as one of the 25 most significant innovations in American government, from an initial field of 1,317 nominations. The award recognized the Ethics Board's use of the Internet to allow quick and easy access to information about who is seeking to influence public policy in Wisconsin. In 2002, the Wisconsin Ethics Board received the 2002 Public Integrity Award, which pays tribute to an organization that has made outstanding contributions to responsible conduct in public service, for its unique Eye on Lobbying program.
In 2012, the G.A.B. launched a new Eye on Lobbying website at http://lobbying.wi.gov, that makes it easier for the public to find and view information about who is attempting to influence the Legislature and state agencies. The new site also makes it easier for lobbying principals and lobbyists to report their activities.
To search the database, click here.
To access the Eye on Lobbying User Manual, click here.
Wisconsin Government Accountability Board | 212 East Washington Avenue, Third Floor P.O. Box 7984 | Madison, Wisconsin 53707-7984