Texas Political Lobbyist Regulations

To begin with, how is a lobbyist defined by the state of Texas?

Lobbying itself is defined in Gov’t Code §§ 305.001, 305.003(a) as direct communication with those in the executive or legislative branches of state government. All types of direct communication with an intent to influence constitute lobbying. This would include email, letters, faxes, phone calls, etc.

Political Lobbyists are Necessary

Many people don’t have much good to say about lobbyists these days. And you even hear some people talking about abolishing lobbying altogether. But the truth is that democracy is founded on the idea that citizens have the right and even the obligation to speak directly with their political representatives. Any conversation with a politician wherein a citizen or his or her representative attempts to convince or influence a legislator is lobbying. Therefore, lobbying itself cannot be disallowed in a free society. Citizens of the United States have a right to be heard and to attempt to make sure their viewpoint is considered.

The Legal Regulations for Political Lobbyists in Texas

Texas has a detailed set of laws and regulations for lobbyists in our state. These regulations apply only to professional lobbyists. Any citizen of Texas is free to lobby himself or herself. But a professional lobbyist is one who receives more than $1000 for representing a person or business or cause in a single quarter of a year. Professional lobbyists must register. At that point, their lobbying activity, clients, and fees become a matter of public record.

The Texas Lobby Group supports the ethical oversight of lobbyists in our state. We think that all lobbyists should not only register but abide carefully by the rules and guidelines set out by the Texas Ethics Commission. Within the boundaries laid out by the rules for lobbyists, our lobby group serves our clients to the best of our ability.

Texas Political Lobbyists Registration Fees

The fee to register as a lobbyist in Texas is $75. Registration expires on December 31st regardless of when the lobbyist registered that year. Registered lobbyists must report their activities monthly unless they qualify to submit their reports on a yearly basis. The monthly report can by found online and includes fees and services rendered.

Texas Lobby Group: Texas P0litical Lobbyists

Texas Lobby Group lobbyists are registered in the state of Texas. The Texas Lobby Group provides lobbying, government consultation, grassroots development, communications, political strategy, and other services for their clients.

Contact the Texas Lobby Group at our website.