Bill > HB672

This bill modifies the Texas Election Code to explicitly prohibit the use of political contributions to pay civil penalties or fines imposed by the Texas Ethics Commission (TEC). Specifically, the bill adds a new subsection to Section 253.035 that clarifies politicians cannot use campaign funds to cover personal legal penalties assessed by the TEC. The prohibition extends the existing restrictions on personal use of political contributions, preventing candidates and officeholders from using campaign money to resolve their own ethics violations. The bill will apply only to civil penalties or fines imposed by the TEC on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, meaning penalties imposed before that date will be governed by the previous legal standard. By adding this explicit language, the bill aims to strengthen ethical guidelines around the use of political contributions and prevent politicians from using campaign funds to mitigate personal legal consequences.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB672