Texas House Bill HB1427

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to voter registration application forms in high schools.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1427 is set to start from the 2019-2020 school year, thereby introducing a structured approach to voter registration in educational settings. This legislative change is significant as it directly modifies how voter registration forms are handled within high schools, showing a commitment to youth civic participation. By making these forms readily available, the bill seeks to remove barriers that may have previously prevented eligible students from registering to vote. The collaborative aspect of consulting with the Texas Education Agency reflects an effort to ensure that the state's educational institutions are integral in promoting democratic participation.

Summary

House Bill 1427 aims to facilitate voter registration among high school students in Texas by amending Section 13.046 of the Election Code. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to collaborate with the Texas Education Agency to determine the number of voter registration application forms each high school will receive. This measure intends to increase accessibility to voter registration forms for students, thereby encouraging civic engagement and participation in the electoral process by young voters. The bill requires that these forms be distributed to high schools twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring, to ensure students have opportunities to register before elections.

Contention

While the bill is generally viewed positively as a step toward increasing youth voter participation, there may be concerns surrounding its efficacy. Questions about the actual impact of distributing voter registration forms without accompanying education on the registration process and the importance of voting could arise. Critics may argue that merely providing forms is not sufficient; schools must also engage students in discussions about the electoral process to ensure they understand their rights and responsibilities as voters. Overall, HB 1427 marks a proactive effort by the state legislature to enhance voter engagement among young Texans.