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Game Commission Hires Lobbying Firm

In a controversial move, the Pennsylvania Game Commission hired Allegheny Strategy Partners, a lobbying firm run by former top lawmaker Joe Scarnati. This marks an unprecedented use of public funds, sparking debates among Pennsylvania lawmakers and advocates of good governance.

The Details of the Contract

Records obtained by Spotlight PA reveal that the Game Commission entered into a $10,000-per-month contract with Allegheny Strategy Partners last fall. Interestingly, the remit of the “government relations services” that the lobbying firm is to provide remains unspecified. Invoices amounting to $41,229.25 have been submitted by Allegheny Strategy Partners from October 1, 2023, till the start of this year.

Effective Lobbying or Misuse of Public Funds?

Travis Lau of the Game Commission explained that the firm was hired not to lobby on specific issues but to assist the agency in developing and strengthening relationships with the General Assembly. Despite already having a General Assembly liaison staff member, the commission hired private lobbyists to maximize their effectiveness. Yet, questions remain about whether this usage of public funds is justified and beneficial to taxpayers.

Other Cases of State Agencies Employing Lobbyists

Only one other state agency, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, has hired lobbyists since 2007. Records show that the commission spent just shy of $1 million on private lobbying firms to fend off a plan to lease the Pennsylvania Turnpike and to secure more federal funding.

The Allegheny Strategy Partners Profile

Allegheny Strategy Partners has quickly grown to represent nearly 80 clients, including large corporations like Amazon, since former PA senator Joe Scarnati joined the firm in late 2020.

Legislative Proposals to Limit Influence of Lobbyists

Recent years have seen proposals to restrict gifts from lobbyists to lawmakers and enhance lobbying disclosure requirements. State Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill has championed a bill to prohibit commonwealth agencies from hiring lobbying firms, a proposal that gains relevance in light of the Game Commission’s contract with Allegheny Strategy Partners.

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