Senate Bill No. 1845 aims to enhance the regulation of lobbying activities in Texas, specifically targeting individuals who engage in lobbying on behalf of foreign adversaries. The bill amends Section 305.003(a) of the Government Code to require registration for individuals who communicate with members of the legislative or executive branches to influence legislation or administrative action on behalf of a foreign adversary, in addition to existing requirements for those who make expenditures or receive compensation for lobbying activities. A new Section 305.030 is also introduced, which prohibits registrants from receiving any form of compensation from foreign adversaries, foreign adversary clients, or foreign adversary political parties while engaging in lobbying activities.

The bill establishes definitions for key terms such as "foreign adversary," "foreign adversary client," and "foreign adversary political party," and outlines the consequences for violations, including civil penalties and the potential for injunctive relief sought by the attorney general. The penalties can reach up to $10,000 for each violation, along with the amount of any compensation received in violation of the law. The provisions of this Act will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to conduct and compensation received after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 305.003 (Government Code 305)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 305.003 (Government Code 305)