HB 4860 Texas House · 89th Legislature (2025)

Relating to the use by a political subdivision of public funds for lobbying and certain other activities.

HB 4860 restricts local governments (like cities, counties, and school districts) from using public funds to hire registered lobbyists or pay nonprofit associations that represent local governments if those associations hire lobbyists. The bill prohibits spending taxpayer money for activities such as lobbying the legislature or contracting with registered lobbyists, but allows exceptions for employees providing information, advocating as elected officials, or reimbursing travel for permitted activities. It also permits nonprofits representing local governments to provide bill tracking, analysis, and testimony without registration. Violations can be challenged by taxpayers through court action, with successful plaintiffs recovering attorney fees. The law directly affects how local governments fund legislative advocacy efforts.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Apr 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Apr 3, 2025 Last action Apr 3, 2025
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Apr 3, 2025
Committee
Referred to State Affairs
lower
Apr 3, 2025
Introduced
Read first time
lower
2 primary · 2 co-sponsors

Sponsors