Honorable Geanie Morrison, Chair, House Committee on Elections
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB1350 by Larson (Relating to the use of appropriated money for certain advertisements, notices, or announcements featuring an elected state officer near an election.), Committee Report 1st House, Substituted
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Government Code to prohibit state agencies directed by an elected official, from using state appropriated funds for an advertisement, notice or announcement featuring the official, within 60 days prior to an election for which the official is a candidate. The Ethics Commission would be required to update guidelines based on this change, however it is anticipated any costs associated with implementing the legislation could be absorbed within the agency.
The bill would take effect immediately upon receiving two-thirds majority vote in each house. Otherwise, the bill would take effect September 1, 2013.
Local Government Impact
No fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.