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Bill

SB 2781

Relating to the imposition of civil penalties for certain violations with respect to political contributions and expenditures made by certain persons who engage in lobbying activities.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Brian Birdwell and 2 co-sponsors

Texas law now imposes civil penalties on lobbyists who violate campaign finance contribution and expenditure rules, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #elections--campaignfinancing(i0290) #ethics(i0345) #lobbyists&lobbying(s3141) #politicalcontributions(s0114)
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Bill Summary · SB 2781

Legislative bill overview

SB 2781 establishes civil penalties for lobbyists and individuals engaged in lobbying activities who violate Texas campaign finance laws regarding political contributions and expenditures. The bill creates enforcement mechanisms to address non-compliance with existing regulations governing how lobbyists can contribute to and spend money on political activities.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects the relationship between lobbying and campaign finance in Texas by adding financial consequences for violations. It addresses transparency and accountability concerns by ensuring lobbyists follow the same contribution and expenditure rules as other political actors, which can influence the influence-peddling landscape in state politics.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining scope of "lobbying activities": Questions about who qualifies as a lobbyist and whether the definitions are clear enough to apply penalties consistently and fairly
  • Penalty proportionality: Debate over whether civil penalties are sufficient deterrents or if criminal penalties would be more effective for serious violations
  • First Amendment concerns: Potential arguments that restricting lobbyists' political spending infringes on free speech and association rights, particularly for issue advocacy spending

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

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