House Bill No. 3615 introduces new regulations regarding the use of public funds by certain public entities for lobbying activities. It adds Section 556.0056 to the Government Code, which prohibits specific public entities—including political subdivisions, regional authorities, and public institutions of higher education—from using public funds to hire lobbyists or pay nonprofit organizations that employ lobbyists for the purpose of influencing legislative members. However, the bill allows for exceptions where public officials can provide information to legislators or advocate for legislation without being classified as lobbyists. Additionally, it establishes that taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief if a public entity violates these restrictions.

The bill also amends Section 89.002 of the Local Government Code, clarifying that counties may spend money on membership fees for nonprofit state associations, provided they do not engage in lobbying activities as defined in the new section. The amendments ensure that any contracts or expenditures that violate the new lobbying restrictions are void, and the provisions apply only to expenditures made after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

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