The bill, S.B. No. 239, 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. Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify that county judges and commissioners cannot use public funds to serve on governing bodies of associations in violation of these new restrictions.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the Local Government Code to ensure that any spending of county funds for membership in nonprofit state associations of counties must comply with the new lobbying restrictions. It also clarifies that the provisions of this act apply only to expenditures made on or after its effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025. Any contracts that include prohibited expenditures will be rendered void upon the act's effective date, ensuring compliance with the new regulations.

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