Some are highly centralized in their organization. An example of such group is the Texas Community College Teachers Association. Other groups have a more decentralized internal structure. The Chamber of Commerce in Texas is an example of this category of interest groups. The third category lacks even rudimentary organizational structures. They are described as amorphous in structure. The homeless and welfare recipients might fit into this category. Interest groups can also be categorized in accordance to their purpose. Some interest groups are economically motivated others are not. Here some examples of this category of interest groups: business interests, labor interests, professional interests, ethnic interests, and other interests.
Interest groups use different means in an attempt to accomplish their goals and objectives. One means is to provide specialized information crucial for the legislators to make decision on pending bills. To be able to deliver information, you have to have access to policymakers. Most interest groups gain access through the activities of lobbyists. A lobbyist is a person who works on behalf of an interest group and serves as the point of contact between the group and policymakers. Successful lobbyists are former government officials and ex-legislators. Most lobbyists will attempt to communicate with legislators in order to win their support. Lobbyists also contact group's members to get policymakers and let them know where they stand on specific pending issues. Communication takes the form of personal face to face, via mail, e-mail, or telephone.
Interest groups are regulated by Texas laws. A person must register with the Ethics Commission as a lobbyist if he or she receives more than $1,000 in a calendar quarter as compensation for engaging in communications with legislative or executive branch members that intend to influence the passage of laws or the formulation of administrative rules.
