A North Carolina trade association says one of its contract lobbyists has identified himself as the person involved in what House Speaker Thom Tillis has described as an inappropriate relationship with his policy adviser.

The Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina said Wednesday that Dean Plunkett told a group official he was the lobbyist linked to Tillis adviser Amy Hobbs, who's resigning. Association executive Tim Rogers said Plunkett is no longer representing his group.

Tillis hasn't identified Plunkett as the lobbyist but mentioned the lobbyist's clients. Plunkett hasn't returned messages seeking comment.

The Coastal Conservation Association of North Carolina also said Plunkett's lobbying contract also has been terminated.

Hobbs' resignation came days after Tillis chief of staff Charles Thomas resigned for a relationship with another lobbyist.

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