The bill, S.B. No. 2781, aims to impose civil penalties for violations related to political contributions and expenditures by individuals engaged in lobbying activities. It amends Section 253.006 of the Election Code to prohibit registered lobbyists from knowingly making or authorizing political contributions or expenditures from funds received as a candidate or officeholder, or from specific-purpose committees supporting them. The new language specifies that violations of this section will result in civil penalties not exceeding twice the amount of the political contribution or expenditure made in violation.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new subsection to Section 253.007, which establishes that individuals who violate this section will also face civil penalties up to twice the total amount of political contributions or expenditures made in the two years prior to the violation. The changes will only apply to violations occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Violations that occurred before this date will be governed by the previous law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 253.006, Election Code 253.007 (Election Code 253)