Texas House Bill HB2006

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to eligibility for appointment as a central counting station manager.

Impact

The adjustments in HB 2006 aim to enhance the operational capabilities of central counting stations by ensuring that managers are adequately equipped to handle the complexities of electronic voting systems. By requiring relevant experience and local voter registration, the bill promotes a more informed oversight of election processes. It also signifies an emphasis on both accountability and locality in the management of election proceedings.

Summary

House Bill 2006 proposes amendments to the Texas Election Code, specifically concerning the eligibility criteria for individuals appointed as managers of central counting stations. The bill stipulates that a person must have adequate knowledge and experience regarding the electronic voting system employed at the counting station. Additionally, it mandates that the appointee must be a registered voter within the political subdivision served by the authority overseeing the counting station. This condition is relaxed for the first year following the implementation of a new voting system or for employees of the political subdivision that owns the voting system.

Contention

While the bill presents a structured framework for appointing central counting station managers, discussions around HB 2006 may cover different perspectives on how strict eligibility requirements could impact the availability of candidates for these critical roles. Concerns could also be raised about the potential limitations imposed on the hiring of proficient election professionals who may not meet the voter registration requirement due to their employment status or residency.

Voting_history

The voting history for HB 2006 shows strong support in the legislative process, with a unanimous vote of 147 yeas to 0 nays during its third reading in the House. This broad bipartisan approval may indicate a general consensus on the importance of stringent qualifications for those overseeing election logistics, thereby reflecting a commitment to maintaining integrity in the electoral process.