The bill, H.B. No. 158, introduces new restrictions on the use of public funds by political subdivisions for lobbying activities. Specifically, it prohibits these subdivisions from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists for the purpose of lobbying members of the legislature or to pay nonprofit organizations that primarily represent political subdivisions and also hire lobbyists. However, exceptions are made for counties or municipalities to spend public funds to influence legislation related to military service members and veterans, as well as for full-time employees of nonprofit associations to provide legislative services or communicate with legislators.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding the spending of county funds for membership in nonprofit state associations. It clarifies that counties may spend money for membership fees as long as they do not engage in activities that influence legislation, with the previous prohibitions on such influence being removed. The bill also establishes that taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision engages in prohibited lobbying activities, and they may recover attorney's fees if they prevail in such actions. The provisions of this bill will apply to expenditures made on or after its 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)