The Texas lobby law attempts to regulate and make transparent the direct communications between government officials and those who seek to influence legislation or administrative action. Under the law, lobbyists are individuals or entities paid or reimbursed $1,000 or more, or spending $500 or more, for such communications in a calendar year. Anyone exceeding these thresholds must register with the Texas Ethics Commission and provide periodic accounts of their lobbying activities. As part of the registration process, lobbyists must indicate the issue areas they will lobby. Notably, state law exempts from registration and disclosure government officers and employees, and media personnel. |
