HB 229 Texas House · 89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025)

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

This bill restricts Texas local governments (like cities, counties, and school districts) from using public funds to pay for lobbying activities or to support organizations that lobby on their behalf. It specifically prohibits spending taxpayer money to hire a registered lobbyist or to fund nonprofit groups that primarily represent local governments and employ lobbyists. However, it allows exceptions for activities like reimbursing travel for employees who provide information to lawmakers, testify at hearings, or handle basic legislative tracking without requiring lobbyist registration. The law also enables taxpayers to sue to stop violations and recover legal fees if a local government breaks these rules.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Aug 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Aug 20, 2025 Last action Aug 20, 2025
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Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Aug 20, 2025
Committee
Referred to State Affairs
lower
Aug 20, 2025
Introduced
Read first time
lower
5 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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