LobbyComply Blog

I love Paris in the Springtime…that line instantly brings to mind the classic song “I Love Paris” by Cole Porter—and for good reason. There is something about spring in Paris which feels almost cinematic.

John Chames and I returned from Paris last weekend. We are part of the Renaissance Society at Kent State University. We joined the group in 2024 and had an exquisite time in Florence and the same experience this year.

In Paris, as winter fades, the city softens. Trees along the Seine start to bloom, cafés spill out onto sidewalks, and there is lightness in the air—like the whole place is waking up again.

• Gardens in bloom: Spots like the Monet Gardens burst with color.
• Perfect strolling weather: Mild temperatures make wandering along the Seine or through Montmartre feel effortless…unless you have already clocked in 9,000 steps during the day.
• Café culture at its best: Outdoor terraces fill up, and people linger a little longer over coffee or wine. I should not admit I consumed a cappuccino and a chocolate croissant every day.
• Golden light: Spring sunlight in Paris has soft, romantic glow painters have chased for centuries.

And honestly, it is not just about how it looks, it is how it feels. There is a sense of possibility in the air, like something beautiful could happen at any moment.
I admit we did not turn on the television or read much news, unless you count the times John was catching up with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Our hotel was next to the Iranian Embassy and it was quiet on our little street.

PTO #1 is done and we are refreshed to return to work and the weekly travel for various conferences.

I remind the team not to leave PTO on the table. For years I was the person not taking it but this year we are set with two more trips, and they include time with our family.

And international travel brings about beautiful songs from the area. My favorite is “La Vie en Rose,” by Edith Piaf in 1947.

Au Revoir for now.

EB

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

As we celebrate 25 years of News You Can Use, we are continuing to enhance how we deliver the compliance insights you rely on every day.

News You Can Use will continue to arrive each Friday, now presented in a refreshed format designed to make key developments easier to scan and apply to your compliance program. LobbyComply News Roundup will shift to News You Can Use Special Alerts, issued when any important developments are announced. All other publications will continue as you expect:

1. Compliance NOW and Summary of Changes are delivered monthly.
2. Inside Elections is delivered twice a month.
3. LobbyComply blog is home to all jurisdictional updates and news items.

Our commitment remains unchanged—providing timely, practical intelligence covering lobbying, campaign finance, ethics, and procurement lobbying compliance across federal, state, local, and international jurisdictions.

This evolution allows us to focus on delivering the most relevant and impactful information while ensuring you receive critical updates when they matter most. We are excited about what is ahead and appreciate your continued partnership.

And the best news is Jim Sedor, who has been with News You Can Use from the start, is managing this shift at State and Federal Communications.

Stick with us because we will always keep you up to date.

Thank you,

EB

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

For many, the transition from high school to the professional world is a period of exploration. For JoJo Moore, our new Marketing and Communications Assistant, that exploration started earlier than most. By the time JoJo walked across his high school graduation stage, he wasn’t just holding a diploma—he already had two Associate degrees in hand: one in science and one in arts.

While his early academic success in the sciences initially pointed him toward a career in medicine, JoJo eventually followed a different calling. He decided to trade the clinic for the camera, pivoting toward his true passion: media and communications.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

During his studies in media production at The University of Mount Union, JoJo discovered a natural affinity for the strategic side of the industry—public relations and marketing. Now, as he settles into his role here, he is eager to put those years of study to the test.

“The position is exactly what I was looking for coming out of college,” JoJo says. “To be able to actually transfer what I have learned but also grow in the position as well.”

JoJo is the first to admit that entering a completely new industry comes with a “tall learning curve.” However, he views the company’s vast network as a major advantage. Because State and Federal Communications is connected to so many diverse fields, JoJo sees this as the perfect environment to apply his skills while exploring new interests.

Looking Ahead: Education and Entrepreneurship

JoJo’s ambition doesn’t stop at the entry-level. He is already eyeing a master’s degree and eventually a PhD to further sharpen his expertise. His long-term vision, however, is rooted in community and accessibility.

JoJo dreams of founding his own production company, which doubles as an educational hub. His goal? Hosting workshops where aspiring creators can learn the intricacies of media production firsthand, providing a high-quality alternative for those who might not have the means or desire to pursue a traditional four-year degree.

Life in the Fast Lane

When he isn’t drafting communications or planning media strategies, you’ll likely find JoJo around anything with an engine. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather, JoJo has also become quite the motorhead.

If you see him in the breakroom or at a community event, feel free to test his knowledge. Whether it is a vintage classic or a modern daily driver, JoJo can likely tell you more about a car than you ever thought possible.

The team at State and Federal Communications, Inc. is made up of professionals you can trust. Learn more about how we support your compliance needs at https://stateandfed.com/services/.

Here we are — the month of March and “spring forward” — as in soon, many of us will be turning our clocks ahead as we enter into daylight savings time! Daylight will be longer, the weather will be getting warmer, and many of our calendars will start to fill up with conferences, vacation travel and other work/life events that we’re looking forward to over the next several months.

I also started thinking about “spring forward” as in what new challenges or opportunities am I going to pursue to either help me continue to grow and/or make me feel renewed? (Are you sensing a Spring theme here?)

What challenges or opportunities are you thinking about “springing forward” into this year? I encourage you to think outside of the box and outside of your comfort zone! Take that class you’ve been hesitant about tackling. Schedule that coffee or lunch with a new connection you’ve made! The possibilities are numerous, and while you’re planning, give yourself a “way to go” for getting all of the things on your radar!

Feel free to reach out and let me know what’s coming up on your “spring forward” list!

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

When you buy Girl Scout cookies, you are doing far more than satisfying a sweet tooth. You are investing in leadership, confidence, and opportunity for young girls in your community.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches essential life skills— goal setting, communication, financial literacy, and perseverance. Girls learn how to speak up, handle challenges, and celebrate success. These lessons last long after cookie season ends.

Cookie sales also fund meaningful experiences such as summer camps, STEM programs, community service projects, and outdoor adventures. Much of the money raised stays local, directly supporting Girl Scouts right where you live.

Why am I going on and on about Girl Scouts? I was one a very long time ago. Today I helped every single Scout who asked me to buy cookies—in fact, I bought 12 boxes from each Scout. In 2026, I purchased 1,932 boxes of cookies. And these days those boxes do not cost $.50 like when I was selling them. My poor credit card needed resuscitation!!!

What I love the most is when the Scouts send me notes or their moms/dads thank me for buying the cookies. So why should you help the
Girl Scouts?

1. You’re supporting leadership skills in young girls–Cookie sales teach real-world skills such as goal setting, money management, communication, and confidence. You are backing the next generation of leaders, analytical people, and entrepreneurs.
2. It funds meaningful experiences–Proceeds help pay for camps, community service projects, STEM programs, outdoor adventures, and leadership training—especially for girls who might not otherwise have access.
3. You are investing locally–Most cookie money stays within the local council, directly benefiting Girl Scouts in your own community rather than a distant corporation.
4. It builds confidence and courage–Every YES helps a girl learn that her voice matters. Even the polite “no, thank you” moments teach resilience—but your support makes those wins feel huge.
5. It strengthens community connections–Stopping to chat, encourage, or buy a box creates positive interactions between generations and reminds girls that their community is rooting for them.
6. You are modeling kindness and generosity–When kids see adults support youth efforts, it reinforces the value of giving back and helping others succeed.
7. Let’s be honest…cookies–They’re delicious—and buying them feels even better knowing they are tied to a good cause. Perhaps most importantly, your support sends a powerful message: your efforts matter.
   

Perhaps most importantly, your support sends a powerful message: your efforts matter. A simple purchase or word of encouragement can boost a girl’s confidence and remind her the community believes in her.

Just so you know, all of the cookies are donated to nonprofits in Akron, Ohio for the work they do. Food banks, summer programs, and anyone who can share the goods with people unable to afford them receive the donations.

What a great way to spread goodness at this time.

Thank You,

Elizabeth Z. Bartz

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

For Krista Nisly, a career in government relations and research is more than a professional path — it’s an extension of the community she has always called home. Born and raised in Akron, Krista has built both her education and career around understanding how government works and how policy shapes the places people live.

Krista earned both her undergraduate degree in political science and her master’s degree in applied politics from The University of Akron, completing the programs back-to-back. Her graduate work through the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics concluded in December and provided a hands-on, real-world approach to political processes. Courses were often taught by working professionals — lobbyists, researchers, and campaign finance experts — giving Krista direct exposure to the fields she was preparing to enter. That applied learning environment, combined with professors who bridged academic theory and professional practice, created what she describes as a strong foundation for her career.

While completing her degrees, Krista gained practical experience through internships centered on marketing and research, as well as work with the City of Akron in development. Those roles helped clarify her professional strengths and interests, eventually leading her to her current position at State and Federal Communications.

Although she has long been drawn to government relations and lobbying, Krista recognized that traditional lobbying roles did not fully match her personality. She prefers independent work and has a strong interest in research and analysis. Her role at State and Federal Communications provides the ideal intersection — connecting the fast-moving world of public policy with the in-depth research that supports it.

What keeps the work engaging, she says, is the legislative process itself. Watching an idea evolve into a bill, follow its path through debate and revision, and ultimately become law offers a unique window into how change happens. For Krista, that journey from concept to outcome is both fascinating and motivating.

Looking ahead, Krista’s goals are closely tied to Akron. She plans to remain in the area and become more civically involved in the community that shaped her. Professionally, she is focused on continuing to grow at State and Federal Communications, expanding her knowledge of government relations and further developing her expertise as a researcher.

Outside the office, Krista embraces quieter pursuits. An avid reader, she also enjoys ice skating — a perk of being near Lock 3 — and hiking during the summer months.

Grounded in her hometown and driven by curiosity about how government works, Krista Nisly represents a new generation of professionals who combine academic preparation, practical experience, and a genuine commitment to their communities.

The team at State and Federal Communications, Inc. is made up of professionals you can trust. Learn more about how we support your compliance needs at https://stateandfed.com/services/.

One of the things I started upon the entry into 2026 is to begin a gratitude journal where each night, I write down the things that I am grateful for that occurred that day – no matter how big or small they may seem! So, enter my delight and curiosity when I discovered that February, among other things, recognizes “International Boost Self-Esteem Month” (of which I would add keeping a gratitude journal as a way to totally boost self-esteem)!

“International Boost Self-Esteem Month” recognizes and celebrates the value of self-esteem – and let’s face it – we are oftentimes our own worst critics and the hardest on ourselves! Betterhelp.com acknowledges: “This movement aims to show that self-esteem development is possible and that various tools and resources are available to help individuals along the way.” Some of the resources listed in the online article that I particularly love are the ones related to self-care practices for self-esteem, e.g.:

• Daily Gratitude Journaling
• Mindfulness and Meditation
• Setting Achievable Goals

Eating healthy and exercising, pursuing a hobby or new skill, and personal hygiene, and grooming all round out the list of Betterhelp.com’s self-care practices that can help boost your self-esteem! What are some of your ways? I would love to learn about what keeps you going and what you do when that negative voice creeps up and tries to steal your joy. Please reach out and let me know your own “tips and tricks.” Wishing you a fantastic month of February!

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

Ren Koozer has spent more than half of his professional career at State and Federal Communications, where he has played a central role in our company’s technological evolution. Over the years, Ren has been instrumental in designing and maintaining our systems, databases, and websites that support both internal operations and client-facing services. Today, his work includes leading the company’s full transition to cloud-based infrastructure, strengthening security, increasing efficiency, and reinforcing a commitment to operational excellence.

With a solutions-oriented mindset, Ren has guided State and Federal Communications through three major website redesigns, encompassing both public-facing and customer platforms. These initiatives have streamlined workflows, expanded functionality, and created greater flexibility to meet the evolving needs of clients.

Ren’s expertise spans network architecture, system design and management, SQL database development, web design, and data integration. Simply put, if it involves technology, systems, or data, Ren is deeply involved. He also oversees the IT department, ensuring reliable systems for both employees and clients. Under his leadership, employee onboarding is seamless, allowing staff to focus on their work without technology concerns.

Most recently, Ren led the development of a new behind-the-paywall platform which delivers increased functionality, faster performance, and a more intuitive user experience. Looking ahead to 2026, he is spearheading the company’s move to a larger Washington, DC office, overseeing infrastructure planning, system design, and technology implementation.

State and Federal Communications is fortunate to have Ren Koozer’s leadership and technical expertise as we continue to deliver cutting-edge information and compliance solutions in lobbying and campaign contributions for its clients.

The team at State and Federal Communications, Inc. is made up of experienced professionals you can trust. Learn more about how we support your compliance needs at https://stateandfed.com/services/.

We are pleased to congratulate Renae Bomba, Esq., Manager of Compliance Services at State and Federal Communications, on her 10-year anniversary with the company.

Renae began her career at State and Federal Communications in 2016 as a Research Associate. She advanced to Compliance Associate in 2017 and was promoted to Manager of Compliance Services in 2020. Throughout her tenure, Renae has been driven by a commitment to helping clients remain compliant while making their work easier and more efficient.

The Compliance team provides essential guidance to consulting clients on registrations, reporting requirements, and terminations, working closely with them to ensure compliance with lobbying and campaign contribution laws. Clear and consistent communication is critical, as state and local regulations are constantly evolving. State and Federal Communications’ continued investment in technology has also played an important role in supporting the growing and changing needs of clients.

“In the Compliance Department, you work with and learn the different filing systems and rules” Renae explained. “You talk with clients, help them to the best of your ability, and gather all the information needed to file reports correctly.”

Renae is a trusted expert within the Compliance Department, known for her deep familiarity with compliance systems and processes. She values her strong relationships with existing clients and enjoys guiding new clients as they integrate into State and Federal Communications’ systems and workflows.

When regulatory quirks or nuances create challenges during the filing process, Renae works directly with state agencies and organizations to advocate for clients and identify what may need to be fixed, clarified, or improved. Much of this work involves managing risk and understanding how differences in state rules—and changes to those rules—can impact clients.

The team at State and Federal Communications, Inc. is made up of experienced professionals you can trust. Learn more about how we support your compliance needs at https://stateandfed.com/services/.

Every client I work with wants the same thing–results which matter. Better outcomes. Clear direction. Real momentum.

But here is the truth most people do not talk about— progress rarely comes from giant, dramatic leaps. It comes from showing up, again and again, even when things feel messy, unfinished, or uncomfortable. Perfection can feel motivating at first. It gives us a vision of how things should look. But perfection also has a downside: it makes people wait. Wait until conditions are ideal. Wait until they feel more confident. Wait until everything is lined up right.

Progress does not wait.

Progress happens when you take the next right step—even if it is small. Even if it is imperfect. Even if you are still figuring things out.

The most successful clients I see are not the ones who never struggle. They are the ones who keep moving forward when challenges show up. They ask questions. They adjust. They stay engaged. And over time, those small, steady actions compound into tangible results.

If you are feeling stretched, uncertain, or overwhelmed right now, that does not mean you are failing. It means you are in the process of growing. 

So, here is the invitation: Focus less on getting everything perfect, and more on taking the next step that moves you forward. Momentum builds clarity. Action creates confidence.

You do not have to do everything today. You just must keep going. And I am here to help you every step of the way.

Stay in touch,

Elizabeth Z. Bartz

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

Ken Kelewae was introduced to State and Federal Communications via the Akron Beacon Journal. At that time, David Giffels authored an article about Ken’s background in computers and how much he did at the companies where he worked. However, Ken was older and he found it difficult to find a fit.

Enter State and Federal Communications. The day after the article appeared Ren Koozer looked him up and brought him in for an interview. It was a win/win on both sides, and he has been here for 17 years.

We can count on Ken to fix, update, repair, and install software in the office along with having the only green thumb on staff. He is the one guy who will do anything, including standing on windowsills to straighten the window blinds. (We suggest he not do that anymore.)

Ken is one of those “always learning” people and is still taking courses on Microsoft Security and anything network related—devices, troubleshooting, and administration.

In 2026, Ken is going to retire effective March 31st. We are not filling this position as we have developed a staff of folks who can help with our IT issues. We look forward to the grand retirement party we will hold in his honor on March 12th. He is the company’s first retiree, and we will commemorate his tenure with a plaque in our office.

Learn more about how Ken and his team at State and Federal Communications help organizations with their lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance needs – https://stateandfed.com/about-us/

It’s here, 2026 – Happy New Year! Many of us in January focus on resolutions and/or goals that we would like to achieve in the new year, and I, for one, have my own list of items that I plan to work on in the coming months!

I can say that one of the items on my list is somewhat a continuation from late last year, when I focused on making sure that I reached out to people more, just to check in with them and see how they’re doing. I want to continue making connecting and re-connecting with people a priority in 2026, and as many of you know, I am always up for meeting people in person for coffee or lunch!

Another goal that I have for 2026 is to find opportunities to engage with a few new groups. There are many organizations around doing amazing work, and I am looking to expand my knowledge and getting plugged in with a few of them — I will keep you posted on my progress.

Speaking of being plugged in – I am looking forward to seeing our amazing State and Federal Communications’ clients out and about at the various conferences and other events that we all support, in addition to seeking out new opportunities to get more face-time with our supporters and friends!

I am looking forward to 2026! There will be a lot going on this year, but I am ready to step it up a bit and rise to the challenges – let me know how you are doing with your resolutions and goals for this year, and Happy New Year!

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

A fresh calendar is like a clean slate—full of space for focus, discipline, and progress. If you want to join me, make hard work stick, there are few simple moves. I was tardy in ordering my 2026 planner and it arrived today, so I plan to work on it tonight. (Yes, I like a paper planner in addition to my Outlook. I am that old.)

Identify your non-negotiables — One of my non-negotiables is reinforcing accountability and planning at the team level. We have a strong management structure, and our staff work closely with their supervisors to prioritize workloads, plan around PTO, and ensure continuity. During the holidays, we had overlapping PTO, and as people return, it is important work is re-balanced through existing channels rather than escalated upward. This approach allows me to stay focused on higher-level priorities while ensuring our clients continue to receive seamless, uninterrupted support, which is a top priority. Going forward, we will rely on communication and collaboration to manage workloads throughout the year. Anyone who manages people knows this balance well—and getting it right is what allows us to deliver consistently for our clients.

Block time internally—This is something I have never done. I do have deep work to do everyday and need to block out time before life fills it up. I do not like shutting my door to work in the office. I really do find I get more work done at the DC office because there are fewer interruptions.

Start small but consistent—Momentum beats intensity every time. I need to know what I need to do every day of the week before I enter the office. And remembering the tool above, stick to the plan.

Review weekly—I used to do this all the time…operative words are “used to.” It is important I adjust without guilt, just the facts. I want to make weekly calls to the key contacts at our clients, and I need to keep up with it or risk it not getting done.

Okay, let’s see how this goes for now. I will follow up with you about my planners and scheduling. If you want to share information with me, please send me an email at ebartz@stateanfed.com.

Enjoy this month…there is a lot going on and State and Federal Communications will keep you up to date.

Thank you,

EB

@elizabethbartz

Want to keep up with all the newest happenings in lobbying, campaign finance, and procurement lobbying compliance? Sign up for our Compliance Now newsletter and never miss a beat – https://stateandfed.com/e-newsletter/

Question: I’m a registered lobbyist in multiple states—how long do I need to keep my notes, meeting records, and receipts? Is it okay to get rid of them after the report is filed?

Answer: No. The best practice is to maintain your records for the full period required by each jurisdiction where you are registered. You should also be aware of whether any of those jurisdictions conduct regular or random audits, as you may need to produce your records during that process.

Most jurisdictions set a specific retention period for lobbying records. If you are registered in multiple states, it’s usually simplest—and safest—to follow the longest retention period among them. For example, if you are registered in both Washington and Idaho, you may choose to keep all records for five years, which matches Washington’s requirement, rather than maintaining separate timelines (three years for Idaho and five for Washington).

Registering as a lobbyist brings reporting obligations, but it also creates responsibilities for proper record maintenance, and it may subject your records to audit. Maintaining complete and accurate records helps substantiate the information included in your reports and reduces risks during an audit or investigation. Make sure to keep all required documents for the full period mandated by each jurisdiction to avoid future compliance issues.

Some states conduct regular audits. In 2025, Connecticut randomly selected 30 client lobbyist names for audit. Florida’s Legislative Auditing Committee selects a random sample of 3% of all lobbying firms each year for compensation report audits. Tennessee audits the registration statements, amendments, and lobbying reports of up to 4% of lobbyists annually.

Keeping your records organized and preserved for the required period ensures you are prepared if you are ever selected for an audit.

More information about procurement lobbying requirements can easily be found on our website in the Document Retention and Audits section of the Lobbying Compliance Guidebook. Not a subscriber yet, sign up for your free demo today.