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 registered lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying members of the legislature or to pay nonprofit state associations that primarily represent political subdivisions and hire lobbyists. If a political subdivision violates this provision, taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief to prevent further prohibited activities and recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs if they prevail in such actions.

Additionally, 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 such funds in compliance with the new lobbying restrictions. The bill also specifies that these provisions apply to expenditures made on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Any contract terms that conflict with the new restrictions will be rendered void upon the Act's effective date.

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