The bill amends the Government Code by adding Section 556.0056, which restricts political subdivisions from using public funds 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 associations that represent political subdivisions and hire lobbyists. However, exceptions are made for counties or municipalities to spend public funds on lobbyists for issues 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 modifies Section 89.002 of the Local Government Code, clarifying that counties may spend money from their general fund for membership fees in nonprofit state associations, provided they do not engage in lobbying activities as defined in the new section. The bill also establishes that any taxpayer or resident can seek injunctive relief if a political subdivision violates these provisions, and those who prevail in such actions can recover attorney's fees. The new regulations will apply to expenditures made on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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