Bill: SB 586, 84(R) - 2015

Bill Caption

Relating to the content of detailed reports filed by lobbyists.

Bill Analysis

SB 586 would make changes regarding at what a threshold a lobbyist must submit a report. Currently, if a lobbyist provides the official with transportation, lodging, food and drink, or entertainment that has a value of 60 percent of the legislative per diem, he or she must file a detailed report with the name of the official.  This bill would lower the threshold to $50 and also would require a report if service is provided to the official's immediate family member.

SB 586 also also requires a detailed report to be filed by any registered lobbyist who collaborates with another lobbyist to make an expenditure whose total value is $50 or greater. There would be a requirement that a registered lobbyist and the government official be notified when the annual limit for specific expenditures have been reached.

Vote Recommendation Notes

SB 586 would affirm the principle of limited government. It is important to maintain a high standard for transparency to promote an ethical climate in government affairs. This bill promotes this, therefore we support SB 586.

Source URL (retrieved on 04/24/2024 03:04 PM): http://reports.texasaction.com/bill/84r/sb586?print_view=true