The bill, S.B. No. 1420, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by counties, municipalities, and school districts for lobbying activities. It adds Section 556.0056 to the Government Code, which prohibits these entities from spending public money or compensating individuals to influence legislation pending before the legislature. However, the bill allows certain exceptions, such as providing information to legislators, advocating for or against legislation by elected officials, and reimbursing travel expenses for authorized activities. Additionally, it permits payments to nonprofit organizations that advocate on behalf of these entities, provided they do not compensate individuals who are required to register as lobbyists for such purposes.

The bill also establishes that if a county, municipality, or school district engages in prohibited lobbying activities, taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief to stop such actions and may recover attorney's fees if they prevail in court. The provisions of this new section will apply to expenditures made and nonprofit organizations established on or after September 1, 2025, with the entire act taking effect on that date.

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