The bill, H.B. No. 173, introduces a new section, 556.0056, to the Government Code that restricts the use of public funds by school districts and their employees for lobbying activities. Specifically, it prohibits school districts from spending public funds to hire lobbyists or to pay nonprofit associations that employ lobbyists for the purpose of influencing legislation. Additionally, school district employees are barred from using public funds or district resources to communicate directly with members of the legislative branch to influence legislation.

The bill also provides a mechanism for accountability, allowing taxpayers or residents of the school district to seek injunctive relief if they believe a school district or its employees have violated these restrictions. If successful in such an action, they are entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs from the school district. The provisions of this bill will apply only to expenditures made on or after its effective date, which is set for the 91st day following the end of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()