Record-Setting Nearly Half-Billion Dollars Spent Lobbying in California in 2023

More money was spent lobbying government officials in California in 2023 than ever before, with approximately $480 million used to impact the decision-making process, according to data compiled by the Secretary of State. The amount was an increase of about $40 million from the previous record set in 2022. Advocates for a variety of industries worked the halls of the state Capitol last year, with 58 entities spending at least $1 million each to influence state government. Oil giant Chevron topped the list, spending more than $11 million to get a word in with the public utilities and energy commissions, among other state agencies. Lobbyists sought to mitigate the implementation of a bill signed last year by Gov. Gavin Newsom that regulates profit margins for oil refiners operating in the state....