Resources on Lobbying
The direct influence between lobbying and policy is often difficult to prove - but a good deal of evidence is available in what the lobbying groups reveal about their activities and in how the legislation gets crafted. It is important to look at both sides of the process, starting with the lobbying group or organization. You can check their web sites for statements about the policies they are working on - The American Library Associations Legislation Page for example. Then you can check the hearings and legislation versions in Proquest Congressional for changes recommended by the lobbying groups, etc.
For information on where lobbying money goes - try these resources:
- OpenSecrets from The Center for Responsive Politics Nonpartisan, independent and nonprofit, the Center for Responsive Politics is the nation's premier research group tracking money in U.S. politics and its effect on elections and public policy.
For information connecting lobbying to outcomes try these sources:
- Proquest Congressional Has full-text of all hearings since 1789. You can look at who is called to testify during legislative hearings as a clue to lobbying efforts and effectiveness.
- ZSR Library Catalog (books)Use searches like -- lobby* "gun control" to find books that may make the connection.
- Proquest Political Science Contains abstracts and indexing from professional journals, major news magazines and books covering law, politics, political science, and public administration.
- EconLit Database of economic journals, white papers, and more.
