Legislation banning tax payer funded lobbying

SB 416 bans political subdivisions (like cities, counties, and school districts) from using public funds to pay for lobbying activities starting July 1, 2026. It requires these entities to disclose lobbying contracts, costs, and related details to the West Virginia Ethics Commission and exempts law enforcement officers from the ban. Taxpayers or residents can sue to stop prohibited lobbying and recover attorney fees if they win the case. The law aims to prevent public money from being used to influence legislation by local governments.