Texas House Bill HB3751

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to lobbying by former members of the legislature; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The enactment of HB3751 will affect the regulations governing lobbying activities, particularly focusing on interactions between former legislators and current members of the legislative and executive branches. By limiting the ability of former lawmakers to lobby immediately after their tenure, the bill seeks to mitigate potential conflicts of interest and ensure that legislative decisions remain free of influence from those who have intimate knowledge of the lawmaking process.

Summary

House Bill 3751 introduces significant changes to the lobbying landscape in Texas by establishing restrictions on former members of the legislature. Specifically, the bill prohibits these individuals from engaging in lobbying activities that require registration under Chapter 305 of the Government Code for a defined period after leaving office. This provision is aimed at preventing any perceived undue influence by former lawmakers on current legislative processes, thereby promoting greater integrity and transparency in government.

Contention

Opposition to HB3751 may arise from those who argue that restricting former legislators' ability to lobby could limit their opportunities to advocate for important causes, particularly on behalf of non-profit organizations, individuals with disabilities, and low-income groups. While the bill includes exemptions for individuals representing such causes without compensation, critics may argue that the bill's broad restrictions could inhibit advocacy efforts and limit the diversity of voices in legislative discussions.

Notable_points

The bill creates a Class A misdemeanor for violations, highlighting the seriousness with which the legislature views the integrity of lobbying practices. Additionally, the immediate effect of the bill could be contingent on a two-thirds majority vote in both houses, which may spark debate among lawmakers regarding the balance between regulatory control and advocacy rights.