Texas Senate Bill SB504

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

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

Impact

The enactment of SB504 would significantly alter the landscape of lobbying in Texas, particularly in terms of interactions between former lawmakers and current government officials. By imposing a waiting period on former legislators, the bill seeks to reduce the potential for conflicts of interest and enhance the integrity of the legislative process. This restriction is expected to encourage transparency in government dealings and may lead to a greater public trust in legislative actions. Overall, the bill aims to foster a more ethical environment in state governance by curbing potential undue influence from former legislators.

Summary

SB504 is a legislative bill aimed at regulating lobbying activities by former members of the Texas legislature. The bill proposes an amendment to the Government Code, specifically introducing a new section that restricts former legislators from engaging in lobbying activities that require registration for a specified period following their departure from office. This period aligns with the legislative cycle, lasting until the end of the subsequent two-year legislative session after their last service. Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for violations, classifying them as Class A misdemeanors, thereby reinforcing the seriousness of the offense.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB504 appears to be favorable among proponents of government reform and ethics advocacy groups, who argue that the restrictions are necessary to prevent corruption and promote accountability among those who have previously held public office. However, there may be concerns among former legislators and their advocates regarding the impact of these restrictions on their ability to leverage their experience and connections in a new capacity post-office. The debate may center around balancing accountability with the rights of individuals to engage in advocacy after public service.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB504 likely revolve around the implementation of the lobbying restrictions and the potential implications for former legislators who wish to remain active in political discourse. Critics might argue that the bill could hinder the political engagement of former lawmakers, who possess valuable insight and experience that could benefit discussions on public policy. On the other hand, supporters assert that the measure is essential for maintaining public confidence in lawmakers and ensuring that the influence of former legislators does not cloud governmental decisions. The effectiveness of the bill in achieving its goals of improved transparency and integrity in government will likely be a focal point in discussions.