Texas House Bill HB185

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Caption

Relating to requirements for a voting system to be used in an election in this state.

Impact

The bill is expected to impact the way voting technology is sourced and utilized in Texas. By requiring all voting system software to be developed domestically, the legislation reflects a growing emphasis on security and the integrity of electoral processes. The stipulation regarding hardware further emphasizes a commitment to reducing potential external vulnerabilities associated with foreign-produced technology. These changes could reshape the electoral technology market, as companies may need to adjust to comply with these new mandates and prioritize domestic capabilities.

Summary

House Bill 185 aims to establish stringent requirements for the approval and use of voting systems in Texas elections. The bill amends Section 122.032 of the Election Code, stating that for any voting system or equipment to be approved, all software must be developed and operated entirely within the United States. Furthermore, any voting system hardware manufactured outside the country must be delivered to the United States without any pre-installed embedded software. The intent is to enhance security and maintain reliability in the electoral process.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB185 include concerns about the feasibility of such requirements and potential impacts on the availability and cost of voting technology. Critics may argue that these regulations could limit the options for election officials in Texas, possibly increasing costs and complicating partnerships with technology providers. Supporters, on the other hand, would likely emphasize the need for safeguarding elections from external threats and ensuring that all components of the voting system adhere to strict security protocols, thereby maintaining public trust in elections.