The bill, H.B. No. 571, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. Specifically, it prohibits these subdivisions from spending public funds to hire lobbyists or to pay nonprofit organizations that employ lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying the legislature. However, exceptions are made for counties or municipalities that wish to influence legislation related to military matters and for full-time employees of nonprofit associations that primarily represent political subdivisions, allowing them to provide legislative services and communicate with legislators. Additionally, the bill grants taxpayers or residents the right to seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision engages in prohibited lobbying activities.

The bill also amends existing law regarding the spending of county funds for membership in nonprofit state associations. It clarifies that counties may spend money for membership fees as long as the association does not engage in lobbying activities, with specific provisions for providing information to legislators remaining intact. The new provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to expenditures made after this date, ensuring that any contracts or spending that violate the new restrictions will be considered void.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 89.002 (Local Government Code 89)