EAO 144

A commercial sponsor who provided funding for a television program for a state representative with the intent that the state representative use the time to explain his position on legislative matters would be making an officeholder contribution. Because officeholder contributions from corporations and certain other entities are generally prohibited, these entities could not sponsor such a program. If a paid television broadcast supports or opposes a candidate for nomination or election to a public office or supports or opposes a public officer, the show must include the information required by section 255.001 of the Election Code.