Texas House Bill HB1084

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/2/11
• Refer: 2/28/11

Caption

Relating to creation of the offense of registering to vote by persons who are not citizens of the United States.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1084 would lead to significant changes in the state's election laws, particularly in how voter registration applications are processed. By categorizing the act of registering to vote as a non-citizen as a felony offense, the bill could deter non-citizen individuals from attempting to register. It reinforces existing laws designed to safeguard and regulate voter participation, promoting a more stringent approach in verifying applicant eligibility.

Summary

House Bill 1084 aims to address the unlawful registration of non-citizens to vote by establishing it as a state jail felony. The bill seeks to amend existing legislation under the Election Code by adding a new clause that defines the act of non-citizens applying for voter registration or inducing others to apply on their behalf as an offense. Through these provisions, the legislature intends to strengthen the integrity of the electoral process by ensuring that only citizens participate in elections.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1084 appears to be largely supportive among proponents who view it as a necessary step in fortifying election security. Legislative discussions highlight an emphasis on protecting the democratic process from potential abuses. However, there are underlying concerns expressed by opponents who suggest the bill may contribute to discrimination or disproportionately impact specific communities. The contentious nature of this bill illustrates the broader debates on immigration policy and voting rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns regarding the implications of labeling non-citizen registration attempts as felonies. Critics argue that such measures could lead to unjust consequences for individuals seeking to exercise their rights or navigate complex immigration status issues. Furthermore, some fear that the bill's focus on penalizing non-citizens might inadvertently infringe upon the rights of eligible voters and create barriers to participation in the electoral process, thereby undermining the democratic principles it seeks to uphold.