WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 346

Relating to the availability on the Internet of certain registrations and reports filed by lobbyists.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Sarah Eckhardt

SB 346 requires Texas to make lobbyist registrations and reports publicly searchable online, increasing transparency of lobbying activities and spending.

Referred to State Affairs
#ethicscommission #texas(v9939) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #ethics(i0345) #lobbyists&lobbying(s3141) #legislature(i0520)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 346

Legislative bill overview

SB 346 would require that lobbyist registration and disclosure reports be made available and searchable on the Internet, improving public access to lobbying activity records. Currently, these documents may exist but their online availability and searchability are not standardized or guaranteed across platforms. The bill aims to increase government transparency by making it easier for citizens to identify who is lobbying on which issues.

Why is this important

Lobbyist disclosures are fundamental to understanding who has influence over legislative decisions and whose interests are being represented in the Capitol. Making these records easily accessible online reduces barriers to public scrutiny and enables journalists, researchers, and constituents to track lobbying spending and activities more effectively. This directly affects the public's ability to make informed decisions about their representatives and evaluate potential conflicts of interest.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Some may argue that easily accessible lobbying records could expose personal information about lobbyists or clients, though public disclosure is already required by law
  • Implementation costs: Creating a comprehensive, searchable statewide database requires IT infrastructure and ongoing maintenance resources
  • Definition scope: Questions may arise about which registrations and reports must be included, and whether the requirement applies to all lobbying activities or only certain categories

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

Sign in to ask a question.