The "Freedom of Speech Act" aims to amend existing laws regarding state contracts and investments with companies that engage in boycotts or discrimination against certain entities. Specifically, it modifies Section 403.606 of the Government Code to clarify that companies listed as ineligible for state contracts under Chapters 808, 809, and 2270 are not eligible to apply for or enter into agreements with the state. Notably, the bill removes references to Chapter 2271 and Chapter 2274, which were previously included in the eligibility criteria.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 2400.0015 to specify that the chapter does not apply to investments prohibited under Chapter 808, further reinforcing the restrictions on contracts with certain companies. It also repeals Chapters 2271, 2274, and 2276 entirely from the Government Code. The Act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 403.606, Government Code 2400.0015 (Government Code 2400, Government Code 403)