The bill, S.B. No. 345, amends the Election Code and Government Code to prohibit certain elected officials from registering as lobbyists. Specifically, it adds new eligibility requirements for candidates for public elective office, stating that individuals who are required to register as lobbyists under Chapter 305 of the Government Code cannot qualify for such offices. The bill also specifies that this prohibition does not apply to certain local offices with populations of 150,000 or less, provided the officeholder does not receive a salary, or to presiding officers of governing bodies in subdivisions with populations of 50,000 or less under similar conditions.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that clarify the registration process for lobbyists, stating that members of Congress, the legislature, and statewide officeholders cannot register as lobbyists. The bill ensures that these changes will only apply to candidates or officers whose terms begin on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for January 12, 2027. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the integrity of public office by preventing conflicts of interest related to lobbying activities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 141.001 (Election Code 141)