S.B. 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. The new language clarifies that individuals must register if they communicate on behalf of a foreign adversary client or political party, thereby expanding the scope of who must comply with lobbying regulations.

Furthermore, the bill introduces Section 305.030, which prohibits registrants from receiving compensation from foreign adversaries or related entities while engaging in lobbying activities. It establishes civil penalties for violations, allowing the attorney general to seek injunctive relief and impose fines up to $10,000 per 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)