Bill > HB86

This bill introduces new restrictions on lobbying expenditures for governmental entities authorized to impose taxes, requiring that any spending on lobbying services be approved by a majority vote in an open meeting as a standalone agenda item. The bill mandates that such governmental entities publicly disclose details about lobbyist contracts on their websites, including the contract amount, lobbyist name, contract copy, and any membership fees paid to nonprofit associations involved in lobbying. Notably, the bill prohibits governmental entities from reimbursing lobbyists for food, beverages, or entertainment expenses, and prevents lobbyists from communicating with legislative members about specific tax-related legislation. If a governmental entity fails to comply with these requirements, residents or service recipients can file a sworn complaint with the Texas Ethics Commission. However, the bill does not prevent government officers or employees from providing information to legislators, appearing before legislative committees, or communicating directly to influence pending legislation. The new provisions will apply only to contracts entered into after the bill's effective date, which is 91 days after the end of the legislative session, and one existing section of government code related to this topic will be repealed.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=891&Bill=HB86