Bill > SB12

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 employ such lobbyists. However, the bill does allow some exceptions: political subdivision officers and employees can still provide information to legislators, appear before legislative committees, and advocate for or against legislation, as long as these activities do not require lobbyist registration. The bill also provides that if a political subdivision violates these restrictions, a taxpayer or resident can seek a court injunction to stop the activity and can recover their legal fees. Additionally, the bill amends existing law to clarify that counties can only spend general fund money on nonprofit associations that do not attempt to influence legislation or contribute to political campaigns. The provisions will apply to expenditures made on or after the bill's effective date, which is 91 days after the end of the legislative session.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=891&Bill=SB12