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Senate approves ban on taxpayer-funded lobbying after wide floor debate over local voice and transparency
Summary
The Senate passed Senate Bill 12, which restricts use of public funds to pay for lobbying by political subdivisions and certain associations; proponents said the measure protects taxpayers, opponents said it would silence small local governments and hamper advocacy for rural communities.
The Texas Senate approved Senate Bill 12 on final passage after extended floor debate that split lawmakers across philosophical and practical lines. Proponents described the bill as a transparency and taxpayer-protection measure; opponents said it would silence small cities, counties and school districts that rely on associations and contracted lobbyists to represent their interests in Austin.
Senator Zaffirini argued that the bill would deprive local governments — especially small and rural…
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