Texas House Bill HB490

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the determination that a voter is deceased.

Impact

If enacted, HB490 would specifically impact state laws concerning voter registration and verification processes. By enforcing regular checks against the deceased voter lists, the bill aims to streamline the process of maintaining accurate voter rolls. The proposed amendments could lead to a reduction in instances of fraudulent voting due to ineligible individuals appearing on voter lists, ultimately fostering a more trustworthy electoral environment.

Summary

House Bill 490 aims to amend the Texas Election Code to refine the processes by which a voter is determined to be deceased. The bill mandates that the Secretary of State conduct quarterly comparisons of the statewide computerized voter registration list against data regarding deceased individuals and those excused from jury service due to not being citizens. This initiative is framed as a measure to enhance the integrity of the voter registration system and ensure that only eligible voters remain on the rolls.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB490 is predominantly supportive among proponents who view it as a necessary step to safeguard election integrity and improve voter registration accuracy. However, there may be concerns from opponents regarding the potential for administrative challenges in executing these quarterly checks and the implications for voters who may be erroneously flagged due to bureaucratic oversight. Discussions are likely to reflect a broader dialogue on balancing electoral access with the need for security.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB490 revolve around the implications of its provisions for voters who may be incorrectly deemed deceased. Critics could argue that such measures risk disenfranchising eligible voters and complicating the voter registration process. Additionally, concerns about the capacity and resources of the Secretary of State's office to effectively implement and manage these quarterly reviews may also be raised, reflecting a tension between regulatory measures and their impact on voter accessibility.