The bill, H.B. No. 1451, amends Section 305.005(l) of the Government Code to enhance the information required in lobbyist registration forms. Specifically, it introduces new requirements for registrants to disclose whether they are or were required to register as foreign agents under the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938. The new language mandates that registrants indicate if they were required to register at any point in the past 12 months or if they engaged in activities at the state level that would necessitate registration as a foreign agent if conducted at the federal level.

The changes will apply only to registrations filed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Registrations submitted before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This amendment aims to increase transparency and accountability in lobbying activities, particularly concerning foreign influence.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 305.005 (Government Code 305)