House Bill No. 96 aims to restrict the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. It introduces a new section, 556.0056, to the Government Code, which prohibits political subdivisions from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists for lobbying members of the legislature or to pay nonprofit associations that employ lobbyists. However, the bill allows certain exceptions, such as providing information to legislators, advocating for legislation by elected officials, and reimbursing employees for travel expenses related to legislative activities, as long as these actions do not require lobbyist registration. Additionally, it grants taxpayers or residents the right 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 can spend money on membership fees for nonprofit associations, provided these associations do not engage in lobbying or political campaign contributions. The amendments ensure that any contracts or expenditures that violate the new restrictions are void upon the bill's effective date. The provisions of this act will apply only to expenditures made after its effective date, which is set for the 91st day following the end of the legislative session.

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