The Times reports today on the impact of HLOGA.

For decades, lobbyists have registered with Congress, but compliance with reporting requirements has been spotty. They had little to fear if they understated their expenses or misrepresented their activities.

That changes in a big way this month. The comptroller general of the United States will audit a sample of lobbyist reports and can demand evidence to verify their accuracy. The new law quadruples the maximum civil fine, to $200,000, and provides up to five years in prison for failure to comply.