Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB450

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

Impact

If enacted, SB450 will have significant implications on state and local election laws. The proposed changes would allow for a more streamlined approach to voter registration, potentially increasing the efficiency of the process. By permitting volunteer deputy registrars to operate beyond the county of their appointment, the bill aims to unify voter registration efforts, making it easier for citizens statewide to register to vote and participate in elections.

Summary

SB450, introduced by Senator Menéndez, focuses on the registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars in Texas. The bill seeks to amend the Election Code, allowing volunteer deputy registrars appointed in one county to serve statewide, thereby enhancing their ability to facilitate voter registration across the state. The amendment proposes procedures to be established by the Secretary of State to implement these changes effectively, expanding the reach of volunteer registrars in encouraging voter participation.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB450 appears to generally lean toward supporting increased accessibility in voter registration. Proponents argue that the bill could lead to heightened voter engagement and participation by allowing volunteer registrars to serve in a broader capacity. However, concerns may arise from those who worry about the implications of centralized registration power and the oversight required to maintain integrity within the voter registration process.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise depending on how the bill is implemented. Opponents might argue that the changes could lead to risks of mismanagement or errors in voter registration, particularly if volunteer deputy registrars lack adequate training or oversight. The balance between increasing accessibility and ensuring the reliability of the voter registration process will be key aspects of the debate surrounding SB450, highlighting the ongoing tension between local control and statewide regulations in election administration.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

  • Chapter 13. Application For Registration; Initial Registration
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB142

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX SB254

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX HB1738

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX SB41

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX SB64

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX HB910

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX HB77

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX SB1194

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX SB261

Relating to registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

TX HB2624

Relating to the voter registration powers of volunteer deputy registrars.

Similar Bills

NJ A4524

Permits appointment of additional alternate deputy registrars.

NJ S2709

Permits appointment of additional alternate deputy registrars.

CA AB2561

Vital records: local registrar: copy of records.

CA AB1286

Marriage: local registrar.

CT SB01051

An Act Strengthening The State's Elections.

OH HB269

Designate Sgt Bradley J. Harper USMC Memorial Highway

OH HB251

Designate Deputy Sheriff James "Jim" Wert Memorial Highway

OH SB236

Regards designation of certain court clerks as deputy registrars