Senate Bill No. introduced by G. Hertz aims to prohibit the use of public funds for lobbying activities by political subdivisions, judicial officers, and school districts in Montana. The bill establishes a new section titled the "Restriction on Use of Public Funds for Lobbying by Political Subdivisions Act," which defines "political subdivision" and outlines specific prohibitions against spending public funds for lobbying purposes. It allows for limited expenditures for travel and expenses incurred by public officers or judicial officers when lobbying on behalf of their respective political subdivisions. Additionally, the bill provides mechanisms for taxpayers or residents to seek injunctive relief if violations occur.

The bill also amends existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to clarify the rules of conduct for public officers and employees regarding lobbying activities. Notably, it deletes language that previously restricted public officers from lobbying on behalf of organizations other than local government associations, while inserting provisions that allow public and judicial officers to lobby for their political subdivisions and receive allowances for related expenses. Furthermore, the bill explicitly prohibits local government units from expending funds in violation of the new lobbying restrictions, reinforcing the intent to maintain the integrity of public resources.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-2-121, 7-1-111
SB0254_1(1): 2-2-121, 7-1-111
SB0254_1(2): 2-2-121, 7-1-111
SB0254_1(3): 2-2-121, 7-1-111
SB0254_1(4): 2-2-121, 7-1-111
SB0254_1: 2-2-121, 7-1-111