Relating to the partial count of electronic voting system ballots.
Impact
The bill aims to enhance the integrity of elections in Texas by emphasizing the need for transparency in the election process. By requiring the manual counting of select races and propositions, it seeks to reassure voters regarding the reliability of electronic voting systems. This is particularly relevant in the context of increasing public scrutiny and concern over election processes and technology. The measures outlined in HB5029 would directly impact how election officials manage the counting of votes and could lead to more rigorous scrutiny of election outcomes.
Summary
House Bill 5029 proposes amendments to the Texas Election Code regarding the partial count of ballots from electronic voting systems. The bill mandates the general custodian of election records to conduct a manual count of selected contested races and propositions to ensure the accuracy of the tabulation of electronic voting results. This process includes conducting counts in at least 10 percent of the precincts or a minimum of 10 precincts, whichever is greater, and begins within 72 hours after the polls close. The complete count must be finalized by the 21st day post-election.
Contention
While the bill presents a step toward promoting transparency in elections, it has generated discourse around the practicality and implications of implementing such measures. Some legislators and experts may argue about the costs and logistics associated with conducting manual counts in a timely manner. Furthermore, the requirement for public participation in the selection process may raise questions about accessibility and security. As the bill sets a future effective date of September 1, 2025, it will likely continue to be a topic of discussion as stakeholders assess its potential impacts on future elections.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Election Code
Chapter 127. Processing Electronic Voting System Results