In 2024, lobbying groups in California spent over $540 million to influence state government, marking the highest ever recorded. This represents a more than 10% increase from 2023, driven by significant contributions from Google, oil companies, and utilities. According to political experts, this level of spending reflects California's economic prominence and the increasing impact of its policies on numerous interest groups. The Western States Petroleum Association, for instance, reported lobbying costs exceeding $17.3 million, highlighting the oil and gas sector's considerable involvement in advocacy efforts.
Lobbying expenses in California surged to over $540 million in 2024, marking the highest ever recorded and reflecting the state's significant political influence.
Francesco Trebbi, an economics professor at UC Berkeley, stated that California's lobbying spending, at $500 million, aligns with the size of its economy.
Thomas Holyoke, a political science professor, noted that increased lobbying reflects the growing influence of California policy and the vested interests aiming to sway decisions.
The Western States Petroleum Association spent over $17.3 million on advocacy in 2024, illustrating the major role of oil and gas industries in lobbying efforts.
Collection
[
|
...
]