Bill Caption

Relating to disclosure of certain relationships with local government officers and vendors; creating criminal offenses.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

This legislation would amend Government Code and would require local government officials to file a conflicts disclosure statement regarding vendors under certain circumstances. Once filed, the vendor would have to answer a conflict questionnaire. The legislation would create an offense if officials knowingly fail to file statements or questionnaires when permitted. Punishments would be a Class C misdemeanor if the contract is less than $1 million, Class B misdemeanor if the amount is at least $5 million, or Class A misdemeanor if the contract amount is at least $5 million. The bill would grant local governmental entities to terminate employment for an employee who knowingly fails to file these disclosures.

Vote Recommendation Notes

We support this bill for its commitment to personal responsibility. We constantly read about cronyism in regards to government contracts in return for political benefits. This legislation would require reporting of a conflict of interest at all levels of government with Texas. This legislation opens the books as to who is receiving contracts, and will work to create more transparency within government.