The bill amends Section 556.0055(a) of the Government Code to prohibit political subdivisions or private entities that receive state funds from using those funds for lobbying activities. Specifically, the bill clarifies that these entities cannot use public funds to pay for lobbying expenses incurred by themselves or to pay any person or entity required to register with the Texas Ethics Commission. Additionally, it prohibits payments to any associated individuals or entities, including partners, employees, or contractors, as well as those hired to influence legislation or government policies.

The new legal language replaces the phrase "the funds" with "public" to specify the type of funds being referenced. The bill also establishes that it applies to expenditures made on or after its effective date, while expenditures made prior to that date will be governed by the previous law. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the conclusion of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 556.0055 (Government Code 556)