Texas limits campaign donations during special legislative sessions

Senate Bill 19 creates new rules to keep campaign money out of politics during special legislative sessions in Texas. When the Texas Legislature holds a special session before September 1 in odd-numbered years, no one can give money to state elected officials or lawmakers during that session. This ban lasts from the first day the session starts until it ends.

The law stops donations to three types of recipients: statewide officeholders like the governor, individual state lawmakers, and groups that support or oppose these officials. Anyone who receives a donation during the banned period must return it within 30 days. The goal is to reduce the influence of money during these short, focused sessions.

Not all donations are blocked. The law allows some exceptions. Donations sent by mail before the session begins do not count as received during the ban. Campaign money for election contests can still be given. Donations to someone who lost their last election can also be made. And candidates running in elections during the session can accept contributions after they hire a campaign treasurer.

Senate Bill 19 affects only donations made after the law takes effect. This change helps ensure that lawmakers can focus on the work of the special session without pressure from campaign fundraising during that time.

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