WASHINGTON—British pharmaceutical maker GlaxoSmithKline PLC spent more than $3.6 million in the first half of 2007 to lobby the federal government, according to a recent disclosure form.
The company lobbied Congress and the Department of Health and Human Services on issues related to patent reform legislation, pharmaceutical regulation and foreign investment in the U.S.
Pharmaceutical companies have lobbied against a bill awaiting a Senate vote that aims to reduce patent infringement lawsuits. They argue the legislation would weaken patent protection, while supporters, including large technology companies and financial services firms, say it will reduce frivolous lawsuits.
GlaxoSmithKline also lobbied on the Medicare prescription drug program, legislation proposing to expand children's health care, government spending on health programs, and several free trade agreements, according to the form posted Aug. 14 by the Senate's public records office.
Under a federal law enacted in 1995, lobbyists are required to disclose activities that could influence members of the executive and legislative branches. They must register with Congress within 45 days of being hired or engaging in lobbying.
