Texas Election Code 255.002 – Rates for Political Advertising
Current as of: 2024 | Check for updates
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(a) The rate charged for political advertising by a radio or television station may not exceed:
(1) during the 45 days preceding a general or runoff primary election and during the 60 days preceding a general or special election, the broadcaster’s lowest unit charge for advertising of the same class, for the same time, and for the same period; or
(2) at any time other than that specified by Subdivision (1), the amount charged other users for comparable use of the station.
(b) The rate charged for political advertising that is printed or published may not exceed the lowest charge made for comparable use of the space for any other purposes.
Attorney's Note
Under the Texas Codes, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:| Class | Prison | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Class C misdemeanor | up to $500 |
Terms Used In Texas Election Code 255.002
- Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005
- Primary election: means an election held by a political party under Chapter 172 to select its nominees for public office, and, unless the context indicates otherwise, the term includes a presidential primary election. See Texas Election Code 1.005
- Special election: means an election that is not a general election or a primary election. See Texas Election Code 1.005
(c) In determining amounts charged for comparable use, the amount and kind of space or time used, number of times used, frequency of use, type of advertising copy submitted, and any other relevant factors shall be considered.
(d) Discounts offered by a newspaper or magazine to its commercial advertisers shall be offered on equal terms to purchasers of political advertising from the newspaper or magazine.
(e) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly demands or receives or knowingly pays or offers to pay for political advertising more consideration than permitted by this section.
(f) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.