As lobbyists, we represent our clients’ interests before key opinion leaders and decision-makers in state and local government.  We also draw upon our understanding of public policy – as it is now, and as it is likely to be in the future – to help companies develop business strategies that provide the best opportunities for success.

We represent a wide array of diverse interests, from multinational corporations and local businesses, to trade associations and non-profit organizations.

We have been on the prevailing side of many of the major legislative issues in Delaware, including:

• Public education reform
• Enabling banks to sell insurance
• Legalization of slot machines at racetracks
• Telecommunications industry deregulation
• Responsible rezoning of commercial property

Our core expertise is in six areas of representation:

1. Legislative Lobbying
   The majority of our activity involves lobbying and representing clients’ position before the Delaware Legislature for assistance with specific, issue-related projects.  Our strength is in our ability to identify, and gain access to the key individuals who should hear our clients’ point of view.
2. Procurement Lobbying
   Through our contacts with legislators, local officials, State and local executive offices, and regulatory agencies, we assist organizations who want to obtain government contracts or funding, or who simply want to do business with government agencies.  We understand the politics of the bid process as well as the functioning of various agencies, and can guide clients toward the most successful approach in transacting business with government offices.
3. Local Government Lobbying
   Local ordinances and regulations at the city or county level can have significant impact on a broad range of business functions including marketing, merchandising, health and safety, and zoning.  We have successfully represented a variety of clients in the retailing, manufacturing and service sectors.
4. Regulatory Advocacy
   We work on selected administrative issues to achieve favorable regulation on issues involving our clients’ interests.  We have been active in regulatory matters related to health care, insurance, and environmental issues.
5. Business Climate Assessment & Monitoring
   We provide organizations with accurate and insightful information regarding Delaware’s business climate.  We keep clients aware of political developments that may affect their activities, so they understand the background of the issues that may arise.  This service is particularly valuable for companies that wish to locate in Delaware, and for companies already doing business here who may want to expand their operations.
6. Delaware Congressional Delegation Access
   Our access to Delaware’s Congressional delegation allows us to advance our clients’ interests relating to federal issues.  By arranging a meeting with Congressional staff, or with a member of Congress, we enable clients to express their views regarding existing or pending federal legislation at the right time and in an appropriate manner.

The Byrd Group provides a balanced approach to contract lobbying that is unique in Delaware.  Because all of us are politically active, we have established long-term relationships that have given us informed insight into the personalities of each political party.  In addition, we continually examine both our client base and the issues we are advocating to ensure that no conflicts of interest occur.

We work with our clients to determine the most successful approach to their advocacy needs, using a structured methodology to develop and carry out a winning strategy, including:

• Assessing client’s current positions in relation to their ultimate objectives
• Researching the issues
• Asking ourselves and our clients tough questions and working together to find answers
• Analyzing and interpreting those answers in light of the organization’s needs and the political subtleties involved
• Identifying internal and external impacts of the recommended strategies

At The Byrd Group, we have proven to be effective lobbyists for a wide variety of clients by operating our business with competence, credibility, and ethics.  With our depth of experience and breadth of expertise, we are able to develop and carry out strategies that successfully represent our clients’ interests.

Bob Byrd is President and CEO of The Byrd Group.  He focuses his practice area on Local and State Government Relations.  He served two terms in the Delaware House of Representatives, where he chaired the Labor and Commerce Committee and was Majority Whip.  In addition to serving in the state legislature, Bob was vice president and chief lobbyist for the Delaware Chamber of Commerce and was Chair of the Delaware Economic and Financial Advisory Council.  He attended Troy University.
(302) 467-4244    |    Robert.Byrd@byrdgroupllc.com

Kim Gomes focuses her practice on state and local government relations matters. She has a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Delaware and has several years of experience in government relations matters. She also earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware.  Kim currently sits on several boards and councils and is Vice President of the Delaware Association for Public Administration.
(302) 467-4210    |    Kimberly.Gomes@byrdgroupllc.com

Rebecca Byrd focuses her practice on government relations matters.  She previously served in the Delaware Governor’s Office as deputy legal counsel, a position that included serving as liaison to the Delaware River and Bay Authority.  She also has served as a Delaware Deputy Attorney General and as a clerk for the Delaware Supreme Court.  She earned her law degree from Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law and her bachelor’s degree from George Washington University.  Rebecca is also a Drinker Biddle Associate.
(302) 467-4240    |    Rebecca.Byrd@byrdgroupllc.com

Ellen Ludwig a Delaware native and graduate of the University of Delaware, is the Executive Assistant to The Byrd Group and is an integral part of the firm's success.  She keeps our busy office humming and brightens it with humor and an infectious smile.  Prior to joining the firm, she was employed by the Wilmington Christian School for six years as the headmaster's assistant.
(302) 467-4222    |   Ellen.Ludwig@byrdgroupllc.com