Bill > HB3257

This bill restricts how political subdivisions (like counties or cities) 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 hire such lobbyists. However, the bill does allow some exceptions, such as allowing elected or public officials to provide information to legislators, appear before legislative committees, or advocate for or against legislation without triggering lobbyist registration requirements. If a political subdivision violates these restrictions, taxpayers or residents can seek a legal injunction to stop the activity and can recover their attorney's fees if successful. The bill also modifies existing law regarding county associations, further limiting their ability to influence legislation or support political campaigns. These restrictions will apply to expenditures and payments made on or after September 1, 2025, and any existing contract terms that violate the new restrictions will be considered void on that date.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3257