Microsoft hires firm to lobby on proposed Yahoo takeover

Microsoft spokeswoman Ginny Terzano declined to comment on what the firm will specifically lobby on and whether the company plans to hire other firms to help lift the deal over regulatory hurdles.

She wrote in an e-mail the company does not comment on outside consultants, but added Microsoft has "a responsibility to engage with policymakers on issues that impact our products, customers shareholders and the industry overall."

Lobbyists are required to disclose activities that could influence members of the executive and legislative branches, under a federal law enacted in 1995. They must register with Congress within 45 days of being hired or engaging in lobbying.