Bill
SB 445
85(R) - 2017
Senate State Affairs
Senate State Affairs
Local Government
Vote Recommendation
Yes
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Neutral
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Neutral
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Neutral
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Positive
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Neutral
Author(s)
Konni Burton
Bill Caption
Relating to the authorization and reporting of expenditures for lobbying activities by certain political subdivisions and other public entities.
Fiscal Notes
From the Legislative Budget Board: No significant fiscal implication to the state is anticipated.
Bill Analysis
SB 445 would amend the Local Government Code to add that a political subdivision or entity may spend money to directly or indirectly influence the outcome of any legislation pending before the legislature only if the expenditure is authorized by a majority vote in an open meeting by the governing body of the political subdivision. It would also require the entity to report expenditures to the Texas Ethics Commission and disclose the same on their internet website.
Vote Recommendation Notes
This bill enhances our limited government principles by holding political subdivisions accountable to both the state and its voters when it comes to activities related to influencing legislation. We support SB 445.
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