Bill > SB19

This bill restricts how political subdivisions (like counties) can use public funds for lobbying activities. Specifically, political subdivisions are prohibited from spending public money to hire registered lobbyists to lobby state legislators or to pay nonprofit associations that primarily represent political subdivisions and contract with lobbyists. However, the bill does allow some exceptions, such as allowing elected officers and employees to provide information to legislators, appear before legislative committees, and advocate for or against legislation without triggering lobbyist registration requirements. The bill also provides that taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief and recover attorney's fees if a political subdivision violates these restrictions. Additionally, the bill modifies existing law regarding county associations, removing language about influencing legislation and maintaining prohibitions on political campaign contributions. The new restrictions will apply to expenditures made on or after September 1, 2025, and any contract terms that conflict with the new law will be considered void on that date.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB19