Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB928

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

Caption

Relating to the regulation of electioneering at a polling location.

Impact

If enacted, SB928 will impact state laws by reinforcing the rule that public entities must allow electioneering on their properties during specified voting periods, which may enhance electoral engagement and visibility for candidates. Additionally, the bill seeks to prevent potential conflicts of interest by prohibiting polling places from being located at residences of candidates or their close relatives. This aims to maintain a level of impartiality within the electoral system and ensure that voters are not unduly influenced by proximity to candidates.

Summary

Senate Bill 928 aims to amend several provisions of the Texas Election Code to regulate the practice of electioneering at polling locations. The bill establishes parameters for the location of polling places, emphasizing that they should preferably be situated in public buildings. It outlines the stipulations under which electioneering activities, such as posting political signs, can be conducted outside polling locations, attempting to balance the need for open campaigning with the integrity of the electoral process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB928 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill argue that it enhances voter participation by allowing more visible campaigning near polling places. They view these provisions as a positive step towards a more open and transparent election process. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the potential for over-campaigning at polling locations, which could lead to a disruptive environment for voters. The debate encapsulates a broader discussion on how to balance campaigning freedom with the sanctity of the voting process.

Contention

Notably, contention arises around how much electioneering should be allowed near polling locations, as some stakeholders worry that it may intimidate voters. Additionally, there are concerns about the logistics of implementing these changes, particularly regarding the definition of public buildings and whether all political entities can access polling places without restrictions. Such discussions reveal underlying tensions between ensuring voter access and maintaining order on election day.

Companion Bills

TX HB259

Identical Relating to electioneering conducted near a polling place.

Previously Filed As

TX SB808

Relating to the use of public schools as polling place locations.

TX HB4782

Relating to electioneering conducted near a polling place.

TX HB453

Relating to the use of public schools as polling place locations.

TX SB824

Relating to the use of public schools as polling place locations.

TX SB961

Relating to the authority of the board of trustees of a school district to exclude the use of district buildings as polling places and to the designation of days a school district campus is used as a polling place as staff development days.

TX HB644

Relating to the designation of polling place locations on the campuses of certain general academic teaching institutions.

TX HB2279

Relating to the prosecution of certain offenses involving the carrying of weapons at certain locations.

TX HB3748

Relating to ensuring access to the right to vote by all eligible voters.

TX SB990

Relating to elimination of the countywide polling place program.

TX HB5234

Relating to election integrity and security, including by preventing fraud in the conduct of elections in this state; authorizing a penalty, increasing a penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.