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 individuals who are required to register as lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying members of the legislature. Additionally, it restricts funding to nonprofit state associations or organizations that primarily represent political subdivisions if they hire or contract with lobbyists. The bill also grants taxpayers or residents the right to seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision engages in prohibited lobbying activities, allowing them to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs 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 amendments ensure that any contracts or expenditures that violate the new provisions are rendered void upon the bill's effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025. Overall, the bill 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)