Bill > HB671

This bill restricts how political subdivisions (such as counties and municipalities) can use public funds for lobbying activities. Specifically, political subdivisions are prohibited from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists to lobby state legislators, or to pay membership fees to nonprofit state associations that employ lobbyists. The bill allows some exceptions, such as allowing counties or municipalities to spend funds on lobbyists specifically for matters related to military, military service members, or veterans. The legislation also permits nonprofit state associations' full-time employees to provide legislative services like bill tracking, information sharing, and testifying before legislative committees without being considered lobbying. If a political subdivision violates these restrictions, taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief and may recover their legal fees. The bill amends existing laws in the Government Code and Local Government Code and will take effect on September 1, 2025, applying to expenditures and payments made on or after that date, including those under existing contracts.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB671