Dorn Policy Group

Interns

What are Lobbying Internships Like? Meet Our Interns!

Here at Dorn Policy Group, we love our interns! We know it can be hard to start a career in policy or government relations while in college or a recent graduate. That is why we like to help students in the Phoenix metropolitan area get hands-on government relations and lobbying experience. 

Our interns Puja Chandramohan and Evan Nye applied to be an intern through our website here. 

 

Meet Puja Chandramohan

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Puja quickly realized her passion for public service and advocacy in the policy arena. She has a growing fascination with international relations and discourses as she has studied, and even witnessed, global policy issues that have been implemented at the expense of citizens. Though, it is her desire to drive social change. That has since motivated her pursuit of a Masters of Public Policy at Arizona State University’s School of Public Affairs. 

Meet Evan Nye

Evan began interning at Dorn Porn Policy Group in January, 2021. At Dorn Policy Group, he is excited to learn more about the legislative and policy-making process. His experience includes interning at Molera Alvarez and the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations, where he learned about the city and state’s efforts to promote international trade and foster a global community. 

We sat down with Evan and Puja to give a little bit of insight into what it is like to be an intern at Dorn Policy Group.  

 

What do you do and what skills are you learning?

We are still new, but we research stakeholders, contact legislators’ offices, watch committee meetings, help with the setup of special events hosted by Dorn Policy Group, and give briefs to the team prior to meetings. The biggest skill we are learning so far is networking and communication. 

What specific projects are you working on?

Right now, Puja and I are researching the Independent Redistricting Commission to better understand how new congressional districts will be drawn. 

What have you learned about the lobbying industry so far?

A lot! First, it seems that success as an individual and as a firm is all about who you know and the relationships you have with others. Lobbyists have to work hard to support their clients, which means that they need to be experts in a variety of different policy areas and make their clients feel cared for. The team at Dorn Policy Group are excellent educators, and answer any questions we have.

 

Dorn Policy Group is Here to Serve and Teach!

We are always looking for new talent that can work with our team. If you feel you are qualified for an internship with us, please click here to fill out the online application.

Two professionals who are in lobbying are working in an office

Advocacy Versus Lobbying

Even though a lot of the time lobbying and advocating can work hand in hand, there are still key differences that make them separate. Therefore, it is important to understand what advocating means, what lobbying is, and how they differ from each other.

What is Advocacy?

In simple terms, advocacy means the backing and support of any sort of cause, idea, or legislation. This can be done through public campaigns educating individuals on a certain topic, sharing positive outcomes of specific issues, and the overall recommendation of issues that will be affecting certain individuals and the community around them.

What is Lobbying?

Lobbying on the other hand can be defined as the act of influencing politicians, public officials, and key policymakers in favor or against certain legislation. Not only that but it can also be broken down into two further categories.

Direct: This is what most people think of when discussing lobbying activities, having communication with policymakers in hopes for them to vote against or in favor of particular legislation.

Grassroots: This means enticing the public to contact public officials in hopes of influencing key policymakers. 

Advocacy Vs. Lobbying Examples

Here are some common examples to help distinguish between advocacy and lobbying.

Advocacy

  • Educating members of the public or politicians why a certain cause is important for the community.
  • Using social media to voice your opinion on specific issues.

Lobbying

  • Asking a member of congress to vote for or against a particular piece of legislation.
  • Using social media to ask members of the public to contact their elected officials to pass or deny current or pending legislation.

Dorn Policy Will Advocate For You

As a leading Arizona-based professional lobbying and public affairs firm, Dorn Policy Group works with all levels of government including Federal, State, county, municipal, district, and Tribal government entities. Working with both Republicans and Democrats as well as Independents, we will provide you with the best strategic counsel to advance and reach your objectives. Contact us today to get started!

Arizona Legislative Session 2021

2020 was a unique year with the global pandemic and presidential election. As we start to see the ramifications, we need to understand where we were and where we are going in Arizona politics. This affects everyone, especially those who own a business, medical practice, or are a member of an association. 

 

Tom Dorn, President of Dorn Policy Group, recently spoke about the 2021 Legislative Session and what is in store that impacts the healthcare industry. 

 

LISTEN NOW

 

 

 

To give you a brief recap:

 

Election Results

  • The House stayed Republican, despite all the efforts and money the Democrats put into campaigning.
  • The Senate remained in Republican control, despite the Democrats picking up one seat.

 

Potential Issues

  • With regulations like masks and limiting the number of people together, how are we going to operate at the Capitol? This brings up constitutional issues because the public is potentially being prevented from participating in the legislative process.

 

The Future of Arizona’s Economy

  • The state of Arizona is in a good financial place. Arizona did not ask for a bailout from the Federal Government as a result of Governor Ducey’s rainy day fund.
  • The growth in Arizona’s economy will fund the government and grow infrastructure for the healthcare industry. It opens new opportunities for healthcare providers to open medical practices here. 

 

How to Make A Difference 

  • To let your voice be heard, partner up with associations or organizations in your industry that have already established credibility. For example, if you are in the medical field looking to bring an issue to the Legislature, partnering with the Maricopa County Medical Society gives you a feasible chance. 

 

When Does the Legislative Session End in Arizona?

  • Right now, we don’t know! Arizona may opt to have a shortened Session like in 2020, where all that is discussed are the necessary items, which means the Legislature could adjourn as early as February or March. 

 

Partner with a Premiere Arizona Lobbying Firm

At Dorn Policy Group, we want your voice to be heard. While the government players propose bills to become a law, shouldn’t you have a say as well?

 

We can help you shape the future of your organization. Partner with us today!

 

Register as a lobbyist

What Are the Requirements to Register As a Lobbyist?

Before participating in any lobbying activities, advocates should review the rules for the state or local government in which they operate in.  Under certain circumstances, advocates for an issue, cause, or organization may not need to register. The qualifications for registering as a lobbyist often depend on the statutory definition of the occupation in each state. The information a registering lobbyist must provide also varies from state to state.

 

What Are the Requirements to Register As a Lobbyist?

In order to meet the required threshold to register as a lobbyist, all of the following criteria must be met, according to Section 4 of the Lobbying Disclosure Act.

 

Monetary Threshold

  • Lobbying firms must file a registration for each client whose lobbying activities exceed $3,000 during a quarter
  • Organizations who use in-house lobbyists must file a single registration if the total expenses for these lobbying activities exceed $13,000 during a quarter

 

Time Threshold

If lobbying activities constitute at least 20% of an individual’s time, then this meets the time threshold to register. 

 

According to the 2 U.S.C. § 1602(7), lobbying activities are defined as “Lobbying contacts and efforts in support of such contacts, including preparation and planning activities, research, and other background work that is intended, at the time it is performed, for use in contacts, and coordination with the lobbying activities of others.”

 

More Than One Lobbying Contact

Lobbyists who have made more than one lobbying contact meet the requirement to register. This means any lobbyists who have made contact with a covered official more than once. This does not mean the number of covered officials they’ve made contact with, but rather the exchanges and forms of communications that have been made between lobbyists and officials.

 

Lobbying contact is defined by the 2 U.S.C. § 1602(7) as “Any oral or written communication (including an electronic communication) to a covered executive branch official or a covered legislative branch official that is made on behalf of a client with regard to:”

  • The formulation, modification, or adoption of federal legislation (including legislative proposals).
  • The formulation, modification, or adoption of a Federal rule, regulation, executive order, or any other program, policy, or position of the United States Government.
  • The administration or execution of a federal program or policy (including the negotiation, award, or administration of a Federal contract, grant, loan, permit, or license).
  • The nomination or confirmation of a person for a position subject to confirmation by the Senate.

 

When Do Lobbyists Need to Register?

Lobbyists should register within 45 days of meeting all required criteria under the Lobbyists Disclosure Act. Preferably, registrations should be filed once services are retained and lobbyists expect the following:

  • To make more than one lobbying contact.
  • Lobbying activities to account for more than 20% of their time working for the client.
  • Expenses to surpass the monetary threshold of $3,000 for lobbying firms and $13,000 for in-house lobbying services.

 

Disclosure of Foreign Entities

Additionally, each registration must disclose information from any foreign entity that holds at least 20% equitable ownership in the client or any affiliate of the client that is required to be reported. Furthermore, any foreign identity that directly or indirectly plans, supervises, controls, directs, finances, or subsidizes the activities of the client or affiliate of the client must also be reported by providing the following information:

  • Name of foreign entity
  • Address
  • Principal place of business
  • Any amount greater than $5,000 contributing to lobbying activities

 

Lobbying in Arizona

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, Arizona defines lobbying as the following:

  • A means to attempt to influence the passage or defeat of any legislation by directly communicating with any legislator or attempting to influence any formal rulemaking proceeding pursuant to Chapter 6 of this title or rulemaking proceedings that are exempt from Chapter 6 of this title by directly communicating with any state officer or employee.
  • A person who is otherwise required to be registered as a lobbyist for compensation pursuant to this article attempting to influence the procurement of materials, services or construction by an agency, including the Office of the Governor.

 

Information Needed to Register

Registrations filed in the State of Arizona must contain the following information for each entity.

 

Principals

  • Name and business address of the principal. 
  • Name and business address of a person who is the designated lobbyist for the principal, regardless of whether such person is engaged to lobby for compensation. 
  • Name and business address of each lobbyist for compensation or authorized lobbyist employed by, retained by, or representing the principal. 
  • For each lobbyist for compensation, designated lobbyist or authorized lobbyist that is not an individual, the name and business address of all employees of that lobbyist who lobby on the principal’s behalf.
  • Nature of the primary business or activity, issue, interest, or purpose of the principal. 
  • Duration of the engagement of any lobbyist. 
  • Description of the expenses for which each lobbyist is to be reimbursed by the principal. 
  • Listings of the state entities the lobbyist has been engaged or designated to lobby including the legislature and state agencies, boards, commissions, or councils.

 

Public Bodies

  • Name and business address of the public body. 
  • Name and business address of a person who is the designated public lobbyist for the public body, regardless of whether this person is engaged to lobby for compensation. 
  • Name and business address of each authorized public lobbyist employed by, retained by, or representing the public body. 
  • For each designated public lobbyist or authorized public lobbyist that is not an individual, the name and business address of all employees of such. designated public lobbyist or authorized public lobbyist who may lobby on the public body’s behalf. 
  • Description of the expenses for which each designated public lobbyist and authorized public lobbyist is to be reimbursed by the public body.

 

Lobbyists

  • Name of the lobbyist for compensation, designated lobbyist, or designated public lobbyist. 
  • Business name and address of the lobbyist for compensation, designated lobbyist, or designated public lobbyist. 
  • Statement that the lobbyist for compensation, designated lobbyist, or designated public lobbyist has read the lobbyist handbook.

 

Dorn Policy Will Advocate For You

As a leading Arizona-based professional lobbying and public affairs firm, Dorn Policy Group works with all levels of government including Federal, State, County, Municipal, District, and Tribes. Working with both Republicans and Democrats, as well as Independents, the Dorn Policy Group will provide you with the best strategic counsel to advance and reach your objectives. 

 

Contact us today to get started!

Environmental Lobbying

The Impact of Environmental Lobbying

Environmental lobbying is a key issue for both policymakers and companies, with over $13 million being spent in 2020 alone. Environmental policy impacts many different sectors, so it is important to take note of what each industry is lobbying for and against. More recently, lobbyists have advocated on behalf of many industries that have been affected by COVID-19, while keeping in mind the company’s best interest.

 

Industries Taking Part in Environmental Lobbying

Oil and Gas 

Oil and gas companies have usually advocated against policies such as regulations on fracking, as they did in 2018 when Prop 112 was put to a vote in Colorado. In that same year, a carbon tax failed to pass in Washington after oil and gas companies, most notably BP, lobbied against such legislation. 

Other policies that the oil and gas industry has lobbied against include Senate bill 421, which aimed to put new regulations on oil pipelines. The Measure G Bill, which looked to ban new fracking and conventional oil and gas wells in California, also failed due to extensive lobbying.

On the other hand, major oil companies, including BP and ExxonMobil, have also lobbied in support of reducing emissions by investing in carbon capture with the introduction of the USE IT Act. Both Exxon and Shell have advocated in favor of a carbon tax, which is backed by others in the industry. 

Automotive 

The automobile industry is another industry that has taken opposite stances when it comes to environmental lobbying. With Fiat Chrysler, Ford, Daimler, BMW, Toyota, and General Motors among the strongest opponents to regulate and reduce emissions.

Additionally, General Motors, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler have also opposed the CAFE standards set by Congress, which regulates how far a vehicle should travel on one gallon of gas. 

In Europe, there has been constant opposition from the European Automobile Manufacture’s Association (ACEA) and the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) for new CO2 emissions standards in 2021. The ACEA also successfully lobbied against an EU mandate on electric car sales. 

 

Notable Topics

The following are some of the most notable topics lobbied by key groups regarding environmental policies.

Roll Back on U.S. Methane Regulations 

American Petroleum Institute – U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Repeal and Replacement of the U.S. Clean Power Plan

American Petroleum Institute – U.S. Chamber of Commerce – American Legislative Exchange Council – National Association of Manufacturers – National Mining Association – American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers

U.S. Automotive Emissions RollBack

Auto Alliance – American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers

Paris Agreement Withdrawal by the U.S.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce – American Legislative Exchange Council – National Association of Manufacturers – National Mining Association

Accelerated On/Offshore Oil & Gas Development

American Petroleum Institute – U.S. Chamber of Commerce – American Legislative Exchange Council – National Association of Manufacturers – American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers

 

Dorn Policy Will Advocate For You

As a leading Arizona-based professional lobbying and public affairs firm, Dorn Policy Group works with all levels of government including Federal, State, County, Municipal, District, and Tribes. Working with both Republicans and Democrats as well as Independents, Dorn Policy Group will provide you with the best strategic counsel to advance and reach your objectives. 

 

Contact us today to get started!

3 Reasons Why Business Owners Should Hire Lobbyists For Zoning Regulations

Businesses often find it difficult to navigate around zoning regulations on certain areas of land. Zoning is the process by which local policymakers restrict the use of the property and provide allowable land uses within its jurisdiction. As a growing business, you may be faced with zoning restrictions that may impede your ability to thrive. By partnering with a lobbying firm, you can stay ahead of the curve by having a team of advocates work on your behalf. We’ve highlighted some areas below that business owners may face when encountering zoning restrictions.

Avoid Expensive Land Use Costs

While costs can vary depending on the land and its regulations, the approval to use certain land can be costly. According to the Independent Institute, many applicants may spend $5,000 to $20,000 to gain approval for a basic conditional use permit. Not to mention the additional fees that might be incurred for transportation engineers or environmental consultants. 

Lobbyists can fight on the business owner’s behalf by voicing their grievances and using communication skills to sway legislators’ decisions. It’s difficult for small businesses to reach policymakers, so lobbying firms can be the link that brings the two together.

Influence Regulations to Avoid Fines

Another important aspect business owners must consider are regulations on what businesses can be established in the area. For example, in the case of Adrian Hernandez v. City of Hanford, a furniture business owner was cited for violating an ordinance limiting furniture stores to an area of 2,500 square feet. Laws like this aren’t uncommon, and if business owners are not careful, they can be hit with hefty fines. 

Your business is your livelihood, and you can’t afford to be fined for running your business. Through strategic planning and issues management, lobbying firms can help you move forward.

Help You Navigate Through Relocation and Licensing

If you’re a growing business and are looking to relocate, it may be beneficial to have a group of advocates on your side. Not only do agencies help influence government officials to reconsider zoning and land use regulations, but they can provide the necessary resources in relocation and licensing. Not to mention their ability to find resolutions in a quick, positive manner. 

Influence Zoning Regulations with Dorn Policy Group

Zoning ordinances can be complex to understand and may hinder the business owner’s ability to thrive. By partnering with a lobbying firm, they can avoid costly fines and influence key policymakers to revise regulations in favor of the business owner. As one of Arizona’s top lobbying firms, Dorn Policy Group has the expertise to assist in any matter relating to land use and zoning ordinances. Contact us today to learn what we can do for you.

A lobbying meeting going over strategy for a client

3 Ways Small Businesses Can Benefit From Lobbying

Owner, HR, CFO, procurement, IT. Small business owners have several roles to carry out.  One that may never be thought of, yet may be one of the most important, is a lobbyist.  Legislators regularly create policies that sometimes make or break small businesses. While it may be assumed that lobbying firms primarily lookout for the best interests of large corporations, that is not necessarily true. There are a large number of boutique lobbyists that lookout for the little guy. There are several reasons why a small business might need to hire a lobbyist, but we have broken it down into three important categories to consider.

They Have Experience in Influencing Legislation

While anybody can gain the attention of lawmakers and government agencies, there is a very slim chance they can actually sway their decision. This is where lobbyists come in. They know how to reach key policymakers and have the knowledge and experience to strategically influence their decision. Small business owners likely lack the right connections or resources to garner enough recognition for their cause. By partnering with a lobbying firm, their voice has a chance of being heard on all levels of government.

They Can Strategically Communicate Your Case

As we mentioned above, lobbying firms have experience in influencing policy decisions. One way they achieve this is by focusing on key communication strategies, such as capturing media attention, utilizing digital platforms, and community outreach. These plans of action are proven to influence policymakers and public opinion if successfully implemented. By partnering with a lobbying group, small business owners will have a team of experts whose communication skills will push their message further than simply doing it alone. 

They Get Results Faster Than DIY Lobbying

Through their knowledge and communication skills, lobbying firms have the ability to get results faster than a business owner would by working alone. This is especially true if the owner is dealing with a time-sensitive issue. While there is never a guarantee they will get the desired results, it is a safe bet they are more likely to reach legislation much more efficiently than the average small business owner. 

Dorn Policy Group Welcomes Small Business Partnerships

As one of Arizona’s top lobbying firms, we are dedicated to helping businesses large and small. We have more than 60 years of combined experience and know the best strategies to ensure your voice is heard on the issues that matter to you. If you’re a small business owner in need of assistance do not hesitate to contact us today!

Statue holding a balancing weight to signify law and order lobbying lawyer

Differences Between Lobbyists and Lawyers

While lobbyists and lawyers both practice law, there are quite a few key differences when it comes to comparing them. Being able to spot these differences can help you determine which route is best for you. After all, you want to be able to hire someone on your behalf to get the job done.

Additionally, both sets of groups have their own laws to uphold, and knowing these can also save you from legal and ethical problems. So, what are the main differences between lobbyists and lawyers? What are their duties and responsibilities? How can they benefit from each other?

What Is A Lobbyist?

In order to understand what the difference is between lobbyists and lawyers, first need to specify what each profession is and what they do. As explained in our previous blog post, lobbying refers to the act of influencing key policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels. They do so by taking a stance on issues that best align with their client’s goals and interests and persuading elected officials to vote in line with those stated goals. 

Lobbyists tend to specialize in certain areas and can be hired by individuals, corporations, small businesses, and firms. They can also work alone or for a lobbying firm. Furthermore, lobbyists have to register with the State and disclose their clients each quarter. 

What Is A Lawyer?

On the other hand, a lawyer is someone who advises and represents clients in legal matters. These clients can be individuals, corporations, or small businesses. A lawyer’s main focus is to protect the rights of their clients and uphold the law to the best of their capabilities. Lawyers can also specialize in certain subjects and focus their work on those areas only.

In simple terms, a lawyer is someone who upholds the law and also protects their client’s rights. A lobbyist is someone who tries to persuade key decision-makers in favor of their client’s best interests.

Can Lobbyists and Lawyers Benefit from Each Other?

Lawyers can benefit from lobbyists in the fact that they can change the law. While lobbyists cannot do this alone, their relationships allow them access to key policymakers in their effort to change certain aspects of the law. By doing so a lawyer’s job can become easier in their pursuit of upholding the law while keeping their client’s best interests in mind and protecting their rights.

Dorn Policy Group Will Advocate For You

As a leading professional lobbying and public affairs firm in Arizona, Dorn Policy Group will provide you with policy advice to meet your goals and keep your interests top of mind. Working with all levels of government, our principal staff has nearly 60 years of combined experience. We will advocate on your behalf to the people that matter. Contact us today and learn how Dorn Policy Group can help you.

How to Find the Best Government Relations Firm

Hiring a government relations firm is a great first step in making sure your voice is heard when it comes to public policy issues that might affect your business. These firms represent a variety of interests that can range from big corporations to small businesses, educational organizations to non-profits, and individuals. Through education and advocacy, they will stop policies that might not be in your best interest. 

Since most people do not have the time or resources to maneuver through the complex world of politics, these firms are capable of doing the heavy lifting. But what should you look for before making the critical step of hiring a government relations firm? Here are some of the qualities and services you should look for in your search.

 

Qualities

Experience

It goes without saying, but you should ensure that the government relations firm has plenty of experience under their belt. Having a staff with tenure and relationships with former public officials is always a good way to tell you are in the company of people who have been there before and know how to get desirable results for you.

 

Bipartisanship 

Being able to work from both sides of the aisle is crucial in the world of politics. By being flexible and willing to work with everyone, you can establish and build relationships in an environment where things can change very quickly.

Background in Various Industries

Apart from having experience working with policy, you will want a firm that has an understanding of a variety of industries. By having a background in several issue areas, especially your industry, you can be confident over the policy being advocated for on your behalf. 

 

Services

Lobbying, Policy & Advocacy

You want a government relations firm with a track record of effectively influencing public policy decisions. They should have comprehensive and creative approaches to solving problems that might be of concern to your business or organization. 

Government Relations

Building relationships and connections are an essential part of the public policy process. By having a firm with strong ties and friendships with elected officials in all levels of government, you can rest assured knowing your concerns will be heard by the people that matter. 

 

Dorn Policy Group Will Advocate For You

As one of the leading professional lobbying and public affairs firms in Arizona, Dorn Policy Group will provide you with strategic counsel to meet your goals. We work in all levels of government including Federal, State, County, Municipal, District, and Tribal governments. With a principal staff that has nearly 60 years of combined experience working with government and political consulting, we will advocate on your behalf to the people that matter. Contact us today to learn how Dorn Policy Group can help your organization or business.

The Salt Lake city capital building government relations

What is a Government Relations Firm?

Thomas R. Dye once said politics is about battling over scarce governmental resources and who, where, when, why, and how they obtain them. One of the ways businesses pursue the resources they need is by hiring a government relations firm. But what exactly is a government relations firm and what can they do for businesses? 

What Does a Government Relations Firm Do?

While this type of firm is very similar to a lobbyist group, they provide much more. A government relations firm provides strategic guidance for businesses and works in tandem with government offices to achieve a successful outcome. They also provide policy analysis and education about their client’s business and industry without pushing a separate agenda. 

Another type of government relations firm is a public affairs firm. This type of agency has a public relations element  to develop messages to the public to bring awareness to a specific issue. They work with clients on a variety of activities including lobbying, media engagement, advising, consulting, advocacy, and monitoring political activity.

What Can a Government Relations Firm Do For Business Owners?

According to AALEP, the potential impact a government affairs group can have on a business strategy is significant. While it varies based on the industry, it can account for between 30-50% of a company’s earnings, tax, depreciation, and amortization. 

They use their skills and resources to leverage a company’s advantages by:

  • Addressing emerging nonmarket-driven opportunities and threats
  • Shaping the structure of existing and new markets
  • Enhancing the company’s brand and reputation
  • Building a relationship between the business and its external stakeholders

Moreover, government relations firms are qualified in scanning the business nonmarket environment for opportunities and threats to benefit their clients. With their assistance, they prove to be significant in business strategy.

Let Dorn Policy Group Assist Your Business

As one of the top Arizona lobbyists, we know how important it is to be noticed by those who govern us. By partnering with Dorn Policy Group, you can rest assured knowing that you have skilled advocates looking out for your best interests. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you today.

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