S.B. No. 2781 amends the Election Code to impose civil penalties on lobbyists who violate restrictions on political contributions and expenditures. Specifically, it prohibits individuals required to register under Chapter 305 of the Government Code from knowingly making or authorizing political contributions or expenditures from funds received as a candidate or officeholder, or from specific-purpose committees supporting them, within a two-year period prior to the contribution or expenditure. The bill introduces new provisions that establish civil penalties for violations, allowing for fines up to twice the amount of the political contribution or expenditure made in violation of these restrictions.

Additionally, the bill adds a new subsection to Section 253.007, which also imposes civil penalties for violations related to political contributions and expenditures, with similar financial repercussions. The changes in law will only apply to violations occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Violations that occur before this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that the former regulations remain in effect for those instances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 253.006, Election Code 253.007 (Election Code 253)
Senate Committee Report: Election Code 253.006, Election Code 253.007 (Election Code 253)
Engrossed: Election Code 253.006, Election Code 253.007 (Election Code 253)
House Committee Report: Election Code 253.006, Election Code 253.007 (Election Code 253)
Enrolled: Election Code 253.006, Election Code 253.007 (Election Code 253)