The bill, H.B. No. 141, introduces new restrictions on political contributions from out-of-state contributors in Texas. It adds Section 253.044 to the Election Code, which prohibits candidates or officeholders from knowingly accepting political contributions from individuals whose principal address is outside Texas if those contributions exceed specified limits: $5,000 for statewide offices, $2,500 for district offices, and $1,000 for county offices. If a candidate or officeholder accepts a contribution in violation of this section, they are required to return the contribution by the end of the reporting period or within five days of acceptance.

Additionally, the bill establishes a civil penalty for violations, allowing for fines up to three times the amount of the improperly accepted contributions. The Texas commission is tasked with enforcing these rules and must conduct a formal hearing before imposing any penalties. The provisions of this new section will only apply to contributions accepted after the bill's effective date, ensuring that contributions made prior to this date are governed by existing laws. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the conclusion of the legislative session.

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