Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2912

Filed

2/18/25

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to a prohibition on engaging in lobbying activities on behalf of a foreign adversary; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, the provisions of HB 2912 will amend existing regulations outlined in the Government Code, specifically targeting lobbying activities. The bill empowers the Texas Attorney General to pursue injunctive relief and civil penalties against individuals or entities that violate this prohibition. This legal framework intends to deter unauthorized lobbying efforts that could influence legislative or executive decisions, thereby reducing the risk of foreign interference in local governance.

Summary

House Bill 2912 aims to address concerns about foreign influence in American politics by prohibiting lobbying activities on behalf of designated foreign adversaries. The bill specifically identifies several countries, including but not limited to China, Russia, and Iran, and defines entities and individuals associated with these countries as 'foreign adversaries.' By establishing clear definitions and regulations, the bill seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the interactions between lobbyists and foreign entities, ensuring that such activities do not compromise state interests.

Contention

The bill may lead to discussions about the implications of restricting lobbying on foreign interests including concerns about free speech and the rights of organizations to engage in advocacy. Critics may argue that such a law could overly restrict legitimate lobbying activities, complicating the landscape for organizations that seek to engage with governmental bodies. The scope and definitions within the bill may also spur debate on what constitutes a 'foreign adversary' and how such classifications might evolve over time, raising questions about potential overreach in curtailing lobbying efforts corresponding to international relations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

Chapter 305. Registration Of Lobbyists
- Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4635

Relating to organized crime, racketeering activities, and collection of unlawful debts; providing a civil penalty; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB2760

Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.