The bill, H.B. No. 1189, 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 if those organizations hire lobbyists. Additionally, the bill allows taxpayers or residents of a political subdivision to seek injunctive relief if they believe their political subdivision is engaging in prohibited lobbying activities, and it entitles them to recover reasonable attorney's fees if they prevail in such actions.

Furthermore, 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 money for such memberships if they comply with the new lobbying restrictions. The bill also specifies that these provisions apply only 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 by political subdivisions.

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