California's Expanded Pay to Play Rules: What the Levine Act Now Means for You and Your Clients

A single campaign contribution can now disqualify a client from a government contract or force an official off a proceeding entirely. SB 1439 extended the Levine Act's pay to play restrictions to city councils and boards of supervisors, and the 2025 amendments raised the stakes further with a higher contribution threshold, new contract exclusions, and an outright ban on contributions by agents, a category that includes the attorneys representing parties in covered proceedings. Amber R. Maltbie, Nossaman LLP, breaks down who is covered, what triggers disqualification, and how the rules reach matters pending before Los Angeles city and county bodies. Attendees will leave able to spot Levine Act exposure before a contribution is made and to advise clients, and themselves, on staying compliant. Audio versions of Beverly Hills Bar Association programs are eligible for Self-Study CLE credit in California. Visit www.bhba.org/podcasts for more information.