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 mandates that registrants disclose whether they are or were required to register as foreign agents under the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938. The new requirements include a statement on whether the registrant is currently registered, was required to register at any point in the past 12 months, or engaged in activities at the state level that would necessitate registration 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 regarding the foreign influence on lobbying activities within the state.

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