Senator Mayes Middleton said SB 450, which prohibits former legislators and their staff from lobbying for two legislative sessions after retirement, aims to prevent politicians from profiting off their positions, emphasizing that "public service" should not be about "self-service." Middleton was a guest on a recent episode of the Texas Talks Podcast.
“Texas spends billions on SNAP benefits, the old colloquial term for food stamps. It's about $9 billion a year," said Middleton in a recent edition of the Texas Talks Podcast. “Before COVID, it was around $6 billion. That's a lot of money, and there's a lot of waste, fraud, and abuse in that system. We have to take a step back and remember the essential purpose of this program—it’s for nutrition and well-being."
“It's not popular, especially when I file bills like the one banning taxpayer-funded lobbying," said Middleton. “But we're here to serve our district and state. We swear an oath to protect and defend the laws and constitution of Texas and the United States, and part of that is ensuring it's not about self-service.”
S.B. No. 450, sponsored by Senator Mayes Middleton, proposes a bill restricting lobbying by former members of the Texas legislature. Under the bill, former legislators would be prohibited from engaging in lobbying activities that require registration under Chapter 305 until after the second regular session following their departure from office. Exceptions exist for lobbying on behalf of nonprofit organizations, individuals, or groups like low-income individuals or those with disabilities, provided no compensation is received other than reimbursement for expenses.
Middleton represents Texas Senate District 11, which includes parts of Brazoria, Galveston, and Harris Counties. He is a Republican and serves as Vice Chairman of the Subcommittee on Higher Education, with additional roles on several Senate committees, including Administration, Business & Commerce, Education, Jurisprudence, and State Affairs. He is also the President and CEO of Middleton Oil Company and manages ranching, cattle, and farming operations, according to the Texas Senate.
Texas Talks podcast is hosted by Brad Swail. The weekly show is focused on public policy in the state of Texas, with insights from the people and organizations that influence it.
The podcast is available on Simple Cast and YouTube.
