The proposed bill, titled the "Restriction on Use of Public Funds for Lobbying by Political Subdivisions Act," aims to prohibit political subdivisions, judicial officers, and school districts from using public funds for lobbying activities. It defines "political subdivision" to include school districts and local government units such as counties, cities, and towns. The bill explicitly states that these entities cannot hire individuals for lobbying purposes or pay nonprofit organizations that engage in lobbying on their behalf. However, it allows for reasonable allowances for travel and expenses incurred by public officers or judicial officers when lobbying on behalf of their respective political subdivisions.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for taxpayers or residents to seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision or judicial officer violates these prohibitions. It amends existing laws to clarify that public officers and judicial officers may lobby on behalf of their political subdivisions while receiving allowances for related expenses. The bill also includes a new section that prohibits local government units from expending funds in violation of the established lobbying restrictions. Overall, the legislation seeks to ensure that public funds are not used to influence government policy, thereby promoting fairness in the policymaking process.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-2-121
SB0254_1(1): 2-2-121, 7-1-111
SB0254_1: 2-2-121, 7-1-111