Texas Senate Bill SB610

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to lobbying by former members of the governor's executive staff; providing civil and criminal penalties.

Impact

The introduction of SB610 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding lobbying and government ethics. By restricting the activities of former executive staff, the bill aims to ensure that individuals who have had direct access to sensitive governmental decision-making processes do not leverage those experiences for private gain immediately after their tenure. This creates a cooling-off period that is perceived as necessary to protect the interests of the public and promote fairness in legislative processes.

Summary

SB610 aims to establish restrictions on lobbying activities by former members of the governor's executive staff, imposing civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance. According to the bill, former executive staff members are barred from engaging in lobbying activities that require registration under Chapter 305 of the Government Code for one year after leaving their positions. This provision intends to mitigate potential conflicts of interest that could arise when former officials move into lobbying roles shortly after their public service, thereby enhancing the integrity of the state's governance.

Contention

Some notable points of contention surrounding SB610 focus on the balance between preventing unethical lobbying practices and ensuring that individuals are not unduly restricted in pursuing their careers after public service. Proponents of the bill argue that strong restrictions are necessary to maintain public trust and prevent corruption. Conversely, opponents may argue that such measures could unintentionally hinder experienced professionals from providing valuable insights to legislative bodies, as they may be dissuaded from engaging in public affairs due to the potential penalties outlined in the bill.