The bill amends the Government Code by adding Section 556.0056, which establishes new restrictions on lobbying expenditures and reimbursements for certain governmental entities authorized to impose taxes. Under this section, these entities are prohibited from using public funds to contract with lobbyists to influence legislation unless the expenditure is approved by a majority vote in an open meeting and is listed as a stand-alone agenda item. Additionally, if a governmental entity does contract with a lobbyist, it must publish specific information on its website, including the amount authorized for the contract, the name of the lobbyist, and any relevant legislative agendas.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits governmental entities from reimbursing lobbyists for expenses related to food, beverages, or entertainment. It also allows residents or service recipients to file complaints with the Texas Ethics Commission if the entity fails to comply with these requirements. The bill repeals Section 2254.030 of the Government Code and clarifies that the new provisions apply only to contracts entered into after the bill's effective date, while contracts made prior will be governed by the previous law. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the end of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 2254.030 (Government Code 2254)