The bill, H.B. No. 230, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. It adds Section 556.0056 to the Government Code, which prohibits political subdivisions from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying legislators or to pay nonprofit associations that employ lobbyists. However, exceptions are made for counties or municipalities to spend public funds to influence legislation related to military matters and for full-time employees of nonprofit associations to provide legislative services or communicate with legislators. Additionally, taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision engages in prohibited lobbying activities.

The bill also amends Section 89.002 of the Local Government Code, clarifying that counties may spend money on membership fees for nonprofit associations, provided they do not engage in lobbying activities as previously defined. The amendments remove certain language that previously restricted associations from influencing legislation, while still allowing for the provision of information to legislators. The new provisions will apply only to expenditures made after the bill's effective date, which is set for 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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