The bill, H.B. No. 309, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. Specifically, it prohibits political subdivisions from spending public funds to hire lobbyists or to pay nonprofit organizations that primarily represent political subdivisions and employ lobbyists. If a political subdivision violates this provision, taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief to stop the prohibited activities and recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs if they prevail in court. This new section, 556.0056, is added to the Government Code.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding the spending of county funds on membership fees for nonprofit state associations of counties. It clarifies that counties may only spend such funds in compliance with the new restrictions outlined in Section 556.0056. The bill also specifies that these changes will apply to expenditures made on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the use of public funds for lobbying activities by political subdivisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 81.026, Local Government Code 89.002 (Local Government Code 81, Local Government Code 89)