The bill, H.B. No. 671, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. It adds Section 556.0056 to the Government Code, which prohibits political 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 service members or veterans, as well as 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 amends Section 89.002 of the Local Government Code, clarifying that counties may spend money from their general fund for membership fees in nonprofit state associations, provided they do not engage in lobbying activities as previously defined. The bill also establishes that taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision violates these provisions. The new regulations will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to expenditures made on or after that date.

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