New York's ethics commission says certain activities by media consultants constitute lobbying under state law and should be reported.
In an advisory opinion Tuesday, the Joint Commission on Public Ethics says media relations and communications services don't necessarily cross the line, though particular activities are covered.
They include getting paid to introduce a client to a public official to facilitate advocacy, as well as direct communication with or attendance at a meeting with an official in connection with an advocacy campaign.
The commission says grass-roots communications constitute lobbying if they take a clear position on an issue and urge the public to contact a public official about it.
The definition also applies to public relations consultants contacting a media outlet trying to advance a client's message in an editorial.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press.
