TX SB1695

Prohibits political subdivisions (including regional mobility authorities, toll road authorities, and transit authorities) from spending public money or providing compensation to directly or indirectly influence pending state legislation

Allows exceptions for officers/employees providing information to legislators upon request, elected officials advocating on legislation in their official capacity, and employees whose activities fall below lobbyist registration thresholds

Bars political subdivisions from paying membership fees or dues to associations/organizations unless the governing body approves by majority vote and the organization meets specific criteria: exists for local government betterment, is not affiliated with labor organizations, does not engage in lobbying, and does not contribute to political campaigns or endorse candidates

Grants taxpayers or residents the right to seek injunctive relief against political subdivisions that violate lobbying restrictions or pay dues to non-compliant organizations, with recovery of attorney's fees and costs for prevailing plaintiffs

Applies to expenditures made on or after September 1, 2025, with immediate effect if passed by two-thirds vote of both legislative chambers