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Bill

SB 2035

Relating to prohibiting contributions, expenditures, and related activities involving political committees that support or oppose a ballot measure; creating a criminal offense; providing a civil penalty.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt and 3 co-sponsors

SB 2035 criminalizes and penalizes political committee contributions and spending on ballot measure campaigns, restricting a major funding source for such efforts.

Postponed
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #ethicscommission #texas(v9939) #elections--campaignfinancing(i0290) #ethics(i0345) #internationalrelations(s0038) #politicalcontributions(s0114)
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Bill Summary · SB 2035

Legislative bill overview

SB 2035 would prohibit political committees from making contributions or expenditures related to ballot measures, and would establish criminal penalties and civil fines for violations. The bill appears designed to restrict the flow of money through political organizations into campaigns supporting or opposing ballot initiatives.

Why is this important

Ballot measure campaigns—on issues like school funding, bonds, and constitutional amendments—often receive substantial funding through political committees. This bill would fundamentally reshape how such campaigns are financed in Texas by cutting off a major funding mechanism, potentially affecting both grassroots and well-funded ballot measure efforts.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Restricting political contributions and expenditures may face constitutional challenges under free speech protections established in cases like Citizens United
  • Enforcement complexity: Defining what constitutes a "related activity" involving ballot measures could be difficult to enforce consistently and may create ambiguity for political organizations
  • Unequal impact: Restrictions on organized committee spending may disproportionately affect campaigns with institutional backing while leaving individual donors and grassroots efforts unaffected
  • Ballot measure accessibility: Limiting funding sources could make it harder to mount effective campaigns on ballot issues, potentially reducing voter information and participation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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