The bill amends the Government Code by adding Section 556.0056, which imposes restrictions on the use of public funds by certain public entities for lobbying activities. Specifically, it prohibits these entities from spending public funds to hire lobbyists or to pay nonprofit associations that employ lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying members of the legislature. The public entities affected include political subdivisions that impose taxes, special districts authorized to issue bonds, regional mobility authorities, transit authorities, and public institutions of higher education, among others. However, the bill allows for certain exceptions, such as public officials providing information to legislators or testifying before legislative committees.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 89.002 of the Local Government Code, clarifying that counties may spend money from their general fund for membership fees in nonprofit state associations, but only if those associations do not engage in lobbying activities as defined by the new section. The bill also establishes that any taxpayer or resident can seek injunctive relief if a public entity violates these provisions, and it stipulates that a public entity found in violation may not receive state funds for two years following the violation. The provisions of this act will apply to expenditures made on or after its effective date, which is set for the 91st day after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 89.002 (Local Government Code 89)