New Jersey spent $89.4 million on lobbyists in 2018, down 2.5% from the previous year, according to a report released by the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission.
Lobbying efforts included increases by groups seeking to legalize marijuana and build offshore windmills.
“Lobbying is a vital and fundamental part of democracy. Total dollars spent rise and fall each year. But there are always new issues driving lobbyists to educate and persuade executive branch officials, legislators and, many times, the public,’’ said Brindle.