HB88 protects taxpayers by prohibiting the use of public funds and government resources for lobbying the legislature. The bill draws a clear line between government carrying out its duties and government using taxpayer dollars to influence legislation for its own institutional interests.

Under HB0088, state and local government entities, school districts, and special districts may not spend public money to lobby the legislature, hire lobbyists, or pay dues to associations that lobby on their behalf. This ensures that taxpayer funds are used to provide services to the public, not to fund political advocacy aimed at influencing lawmakers. Taxpayers should not be forced to pay for lobbying efforts that may run against their own views or interests.

The bill also creates meaningful accountability. Government entities must certify each year that they are in compliance, and entities that fail to comply can lose access to state funds. Enforcement authority is clearly defined, and taxpayers are given standing to seek injunctive relief if public funds are being misused. This transparency and enforcement framework ensures the policy has real teeth and is not just symbolic.

HB0088 strengthens the integrity of the legislative process by reducing the influence of taxpayer funded lobbying and restoring a clearer separation between government administration and political advocacy. It ensures that public money is spent on serving the public, not on trying to influence the laws that govern the public.