Bill > SB1420

This bill establishes new restrictions on how counties, municipalities, and school districts can use public money for lobbying activities. Specifically, these local government entities are prohibited from spending public funds to directly or indirectly influence legislation pending before the Texas Legislature. However, the bill does allow several exceptions: government officers and employees can provide information to legislators, appear before legislative committees, and advocate for or against legislation under certain conditions. The bill permits reimbursing travel expenses for authorized activities and allows paying membership dues to nonprofit state associations that advocate on behalf of local governments. Importantly, taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief and recover attorney's fees if a local government violates these restrictions. The new rules will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply to expenditures, payments, or establishment of nonprofit organizations made on or after that date. The bill aims to limit the use of taxpayer funds for lobbying efforts while still preserving some channels of communication between local governments and state legislators.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1420