UPDATE: Former state Representative Chris Paddie has been fined $105,500 by the Texas Ethics Commission for violating a critical revolving door lobbying law. The decision, just announced on October 25, 2023, underscores the legal restrictions aimed at preventing former legislators from immediately transitioning to lobbying roles after leaving office.
The ethics commission determined that Paddie, who served as a Republican representative from Marshall, broke the law by contributing $54,000 to state officeholders in late 2021 while still in office. He then registered as a lobbyist in May 2022. This law, enacted in 2019, was designed to curb potential conflicts of interest and ensure that former officials do not leverage their influence shortly after their tenure.
According to the commission’s ruling, the timing of Paddie’s contributions suggests an intent to maintain influence with lawmakers prior to his retirement. The commission stated,
“This suggests intent to cultivate or maintain influence with the Legislature in advance of his retirement, which is what the statute was intended to prohibit.”
In a twist, Paddie unregistered as a lobbyist just a week after his initial registration amid growing scrutiny. He later reregistered but attempted to reimburse his campaign account with personal funds totaling $55,500 to cover his prior contributions, a move deemed a loophole by the ethics commission. A subsequent ruling in February 2023 clarified that using personal funds does not rectify past violations.
The commission also revealed that Paddie accepted over $900,000 from lobbying clients under contract with him from April 2022 to January 2024, further complicating his legal standing. The hefty fine reflects the “willful nature of the violations” and the commission’s determination to deter future infractions.
Payment of the fine is due within 30 days of issuance. Paddie, who notably coauthored House Bill 2677—the law he is now accused of violating—did not seek reelection in 2021, marking a controversial chapter in his political career.
This urgent update highlights significant ethical concerns within Texas politics, raising questions about the integrity of public service and the influence of money in legislative processes. As the situation develops, stakeholders are watching closely for Paddie’s next moves and the implications for future lobbying regulations in the state.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as it impacts the political landscape in Texas and beyond.
