Boise State University’s Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) would like to remind all Principal Investigators (PIs) that lobbying is strictly prohibited and is an unallowable cost on federally funded sponsored projects.
Lobbying is defined as any attempt to influence any member of the Executive or Legislative branches of government (including any agency employee) for the purpose of securing a grant, contract, or cooperative agreement or any extension, renewal, or modification of any of these award mechanisms. This includes, but is not limited to, (1) direct communication with elected officials, their staff, or government agencies or participation in third party efforts that influence elected officials, their staff, or government agencies and (2) influencing elected official’s opinions on new and/or revised legislation. No federally funded sponsored project funds, including but not limited to personnel effort on a sponsored project, may be used for lobbying efforts unless lobbying is specifically allowable according to the funding opportunity/award. For more information, see the provisions at 2 CFR 200.450 and 31 U.S.C. 1352.
PIs found to have engaged in lobbying activities using federal funds may be subject to a variety of penalties, including:
- Loss of funding: Sponsored projects found to have engaged in lobbying may be terminated, and the university may be required to return any unspent funds to the sponsor.
- Civil and criminal penalties: Individuals found to have engaged in lobbying may be subject to civil and criminal penalties, including fines of up to $100,000 per violation and imprisonment.
- Suspension/Debarment: The University and the Individuals engaged in lobbying may be suspended or debarred from receiving further federal funding.
To avoid any potential issues, PIs are advised to consult with OSP before engaging in any activities that could be construed as lobbying. If you have any questions about permissible activities, contact OSP (osp@boisestate.edu or 208-426-4420) for assistance.
We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that sponsored project funds are used in compliance with all applicable regulations.