H.B. No. 18 introduces a new subchapter to the Government Code that establishes restrictions on political contributions and expenditures by members of the legislature during periods of "impeding absence." An "impeding absence" is defined as an unexcused absence from a legislative session while the member is out of state, specifically when the member's house has taken measures to compel attendance. During such absences, members and their supporting political committees or caucuses are prohibited from accepting political contributions that exceed a specified per diem amount or making expenditures related to travel, food, or lodging.

The bill also outlines the process for returning any prohibited contributions received during an impeding absence and establishes civil penalties for violations, which can be up to $5,000 per violation. The legislation mandates that any violations be reported to the presiding officer of the respective legislative chamber, who will then certify the violation to the district court for further proceedings. This act is set to take effect 91 days after the end of the legislative session and applies only to contributions accepted or expenditures made after its effective date.

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