| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Neutral | Neutral | Positive | Positive | Negative |
Relating to restrictions on lobbying; creating a criminal offense.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
SB 13 would prohibit a former member of the legislature from lobbying before the end of the legislative cycle following the legislative cycle in which the former member last served as a member of the legislature. However, this would not apply to a former member who does not receive compensation other than reimbursement for actual expenses for communicating directly with a member of the legislature or executive branch to influence legislation or administrative action. A former member who violates this bill's provisions would commit a Class A misdemeanor.
Texas Action supports SB 13 because it promotes limited government and personal responsibility principles. This bill would add Texas to the list of states imposing these types of ethical reforms that help limit the "revolving door" practice of legislators leaving public service to immediately begin lobbying. This bill would increase transparency and ensure legislators are not using their elected position for their own financial gain.