The bill, H.B. No. 119, aims to enhance the regulation of lobbying activities in Texas, specifically targeting individuals who lobby on behalf of foreign adversaries. It amends Section 305.003(a) of the Government Code to require registration for those who communicate with legislative or executive branch members to influence legislation or administrative action on behalf of a foreign adversary, in addition to existing requirements for financial compensation or expenditures. The bill introduces a new section, 305.030, which prohibits lobbyists from receiving compensation from foreign adversaries, foreign adversary clients, or foreign adversary political parties, and establishes civil penalties for violations.

The new legal definitions included in the bill clarify what constitutes a "foreign adversary," "foreign adversary client," and "foreign adversary political party," among others. It also empowers the attorney general to seek injunctive relief and civil penalties against violators, with penalties reaching up to $10,000 per violation and the amount of any compensation received in violation of the law. The provisions of this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to conduct and compensation received after that date, ensuring that prior actions are governed by the existing law.

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