Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1899

Caption

Relating to the posting of voter information on Internet websites.

Impact

The proposed amendments to the Election Code require that at least eight different types of notices, proclamations, and forms are posted online if the concerned authority maintains a website. This could significantly alter how voter information is disseminated, making it more readily accessible to the public. The intention behind this legislation is to facilitate voter engagement and informational outreach, potentially leading to higher participation rates in elections.

Summary

House Bill 1899 aims to enhance the accessibility of voter information by mandating that various forms and notices related to voter registration and elections be made available on the Internet websites of relevant authorities, such as the governor, the secretary of state, and county clerks. This initiative is intended to improve transparency and ensure that voters have easy access to vital information regarding elections and voting procedures.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1899 include concerns over the digital divide, where certain populations might lack Internet access or familiarity with online resources, potentially leaving them uninformed. Critics may argue that while the bill seeks to modernize voter information posting, it could inadvertently marginalize those without reliable Internet connections. Additionally, there could be questions about the adequacy of online information compared to traditional methods of communication, such as mailing paper copies or public postings in community centers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3748

Relating to ensuring access to the right to vote by all eligible voters.

TX HB380

Relating to the secretary of state posting on the secretary of state's Internet website databases containing certain information about elections.

TX SB62

Relating to posting certain documents and information related to certain real property sales on a county's Internet website.

TX HB3174

Relating to requirements for counties posting election information on an Internet website.

TX HB2860

Relating to maintaining certain voter registration information and reviewing ballots voted by mail; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB3273

Relating to public notice of the availability on the Internet of property-tax-related information.

TX SB1916

Relating to publication of public improvement district service plans and assessments on certain public Internet websites.

TX HB4232

Relating to publication of public improvement district service plans and assessments on certain public Internet websites.

TX HB4560

Relating to ballots voted by mail and the prosecution of the offense of unlawful solicitation and distribution of an application to vote by mail.

TX HB3017

Relating to the required posting by governmental entities of employee contracts and compensation on entity Internet websites.

Similar Bills

CA AB2095

Publication: newspapers of general circulation.

CA AB734

Organic waste: reduction goals: edible food.

CA AB1379

Open meetings: local agencies: teleconferences.

CA AB810

Local government: internet websites and email addresses.

CA AB2706

Public Utilities Commission: internet publication: adopted decisions and resolutions.

CA AB2901

Public Utilities Commission: internet publication: adopted decisions and resolutions.

CA SB1228

Adoption of regulations.

CA AB1440

Public Utilities Commission: internet publication: adopted decisions and resolutions.