The bill, H.B. No. 230, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. Specifically, it prohibits political subdivisions from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying members of the legislature or to pay nonprofit state associations that hire 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, the bill allows taxpayers or residents to 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 from their general fund for membership fees to nonprofit state associations, provided they do not engage in prohibited lobbying activities. The amendments ensure that any contracts or expenditures that violate the new restrictions are void. The provisions of this bill will apply only to expenditures made after its effective date, which is set for 91 days after the end of the legislative session.

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