Following in the path of the state’s House of Representatives, Hillsborough County Commissioners approved a measure banning text messages and other electronic communications with lobbyists during commission meetings.

First introduced in December, the initial proposal only placed restrictions and obligations on lobbyists; however, two amendments were approved to create responsibilities for commissioners as well.

Commissioners, like lobbyists, must disclose to the lobbyist registration manager any unavoidable communications and commissioners will be subject to fines for violations. The measure passed by five votes to two.