Relating to the use by a political subdivision of public funds for lobbying activities.
HB 115 restricts Texas local governments (like cities and counties) from using public funds to hire lobbyists or pay organizations that hire lobbyists to influence state legislation. The bill specifically prohibits spending public money to contract with registered lobbyists or fund associations primarily representing local governments if those associations employ registered lobbyists, with exceptions for sheriffs' associations and certain staff activities. It allows local government employees to provide information to lawmakers, advocate for policies without registering as lobbyists, and cover direct travel expenses for such activities. Taxpayers or residents can sue to stop prohibited spending and recover legal fees if they win the case. The law aims to prevent public funds from being used to directly lobby the state legislature.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Aug 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Aug 18, 2025
Last action Aug 18, 2025
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Aug 18, 2025
Committee
Referred to State Affairs
lower
Aug 18, 2025
Introduced
Read first time
lower
2 primary · 55 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Ellen Troxclair
RRepublican
P
Terri Leo-Wilson
RRepublican
Co
Alan Schoolcraft
RRepublican
Co
Andy Hopper
RRepublican
Co
Angelia Orr
RRepublican
Co
Ben Bumgarner
RRepublican
Co
Brent Money
RRepublican
Co
Briscoe Cain
RRepublican
Co
Carl Tepper
RRepublican
Co
Caroline Harris Davila
RRepublican
Co
Carrie Isaac
RRepublican
Co
Charles Cunningham
RRepublican
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