Patrick Backs Bill to Ban Fundraising During Special Sessions

State Senator Paul Bettencourt (R) plans on introducing a bill that would curb political fundraising during special legislative sessions, and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) is all for it.

This week, Lt. Governor Patrick took to social media to announce that he had asked state Senator Bettencourt to file the bill.

Citing that the state senator had shared, “I will file a bill Tuesday to stop any political fundraising by legislative and executive branch officeholders during a special session. Public policy must come first,” the lt. governor added that he believes the bill with have the necessary votes to be passed.

He outlined several reasons for backing the proposal, noting that it aligns with rules already in place during regular legislative sessions, which prohibit fundraising while bills are being considered. He also highlighted practical benefits, writing, “It greatly reduces quorum breaks because outsiders will not be able to fund the costs to travel outside Texas.” He explained that limiting fundraising could prevent legislators from leaving the state during special sessions.

Additionally, Lt. Governor Patrick said the bill would likely cut down on both the number and length of special sessions, noting, “members want to complete their work quickly and effectively, so they can return home to their families and regular jobs.”

While acknowledging that special sessions can be necessary for emergencies or to finalize unfinished legislation, Lt. Governor Patrick commented that Texas has had nine special sessions in just the past five years, expressing that “that's just too many.”

In short, the Texas Republicans believe it will keep lawmakers focused on legislative priorities and save taxpayer money by minimizing distractions and unnecessary travel.

The legislation is also a response to recent efforts from Texas House Democrats who fled the state in opposition to House Bill 4, a redistricting bill. The move further strained the relationship between both sides of the aisle, and Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) has gone after former Rep. Beto O’Rourke (D) over his efforts to fund the Texas House Democrats who fled Texas.