The bill, H.B. No. 3257, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. Specifically, it prohibits these subdivisions from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying members of the legislature or to pay nonprofit associations that employ lobbyists. However, the bill allows certain exceptions, such as providing information to legislators, advocating for legislation, and reimbursing employees for travel expenses related to these activities, as long as they do not require lobbyist registration. Additionally, it grants taxpayers or residents the right to seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision engages in prohibited lobbying activities.

The bill also amends existing law regarding the spending of county funds on membership fees for nonprofit state associations of counties. It clarifies that counties may spend money for such memberships unless the association engages in lobbying activities as defined in the new Section 556.0056. The amendments ensure that any contracts or expenditures that violate these new restrictions will be considered void upon the bill's effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 89.002 (Local Government Code 89)