The Government approved lobbying regulation

After several delays, the Czech Government approved the Government Bill on the Regulation of Lobbying on March 6, 2024. According to the Ministry of Justice, the new legislation is to set rules for lobbying and define this activity as a standard part of the legislative and decision-making process. The Cabinet has decided to extend the definition of those being lobbied with the President, members of advisory bodies to the government, or assistants to MPs and Senators of the Parliament. On the other hand, local authorities and entities representing them, professional chambers, employers’ and employees’ associations, or churches were excluded from the scope of lobbyists. The Ministry of Justice proposes that the law will come into force July 1, 2025. The proposal is currently heading to the Chamber of Deputies for consideration.