Texas Senate Bill SB703

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the reporting by local governmental entities of expenditures for lobbying; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will amend the Government Code to introduce stricter requirements for local entities. These entities, such as counties or municipalities, will need to submit detailed statements concerning their lobbying expenditures, including the identities and payment amounts for contractors involved in lobbying. The legislation outlines specific deadlines for such filings, requiring reporters to adhere to a biannual schedule and post their reports on their respective websites, thereby facilitating public access to this information.

Summary

SB703 addresses the requirement for local governmental entities in Texas to report their expenditures related to lobbying activities. This legislation is designed to enhance transparency in the way local governments conduct lobbying and the expenses they incur in this capacity. By mandating these disclosures, SB703 aims to shed light on the nature of lobbying at the local level and ensure that taxpayers are informed about how public funds are utilized in efforts to influence legislative action.

Contention

While proponents of SB703 argue that it will bolster accountability and protect public interest by making lobbying expenditures visible, critics might view the additional reporting requirements as burdensome for local governments. Concerns may arise regarding the feasibility of complying with these mandates and the potential for increased administrative costs. Additionally, the introduction of civil penalties for late filings could raise apprehensions about fairness and the implications for local governance, particularly if the penalties disproportionately affect smaller entities.