The "Freedom of Speech Act" aims to amend existing laws regarding the eligibility of companies to contract with the state of Texas. Specifically, it modifies Section 403.606 of the Government Code to clarify that companies listed as ineligible under Chapters 808, 809, and 2270 cannot apply for state contracts or investments. Notably, the bill removes references to Chapter 2271 and Chapter 2274, which were previously included in the list of ineligible criteria. Additionally, Section 2400.0015 is amended to specify that the chapter does not apply to investments prohibited under Chapter 808, further excluding contracts previously prohibited under Chapter 2271.

Furthermore, the bill repeals Chapters 2271, 2274, and 2276 of the Government Code, effectively eliminating certain restrictions on contracting with companies that may boycott or discriminate against specific entities. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds majority 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)