Bill > HB94

This bill restricts how certain public entities can use public funds for lobbying activities. Specifically, the bill applies to a wide range of public entities including political subdivisions, special districts, universities, utilities, and authorities. These entities are prohibited from spending public funds to hire registered lobbyists to lobby legislators or to pay nonprofit associations that hire lobbyists. However, the bill does allow some exceptions, such as allowing public entity officers and employees to provide information to legislators, appear before legislative committees, and advocate for or against legislation without triggering lobbyist registration requirements. If a public entity violates these restrictions, taxpayers or residents can seek injunctive relief and recover attorney's fees, and the entity may be barred from receiving state funds for two years. The bill also modifies existing law regarding county associations, removing language that previously allowed some indirect lobbying activities. These restrictions aim to limit the use of taxpayer funds for political lobbying efforts by public entities.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=891&Bill=HB94