Relating to the deadline for returning a ballot voted by mail.
HB 2158 would significantly impact regulations surrounding mail-in voting in Texas. By extending the timeframe for ballots cast from outside the U.S. and allowing them to be counted if received within five days following the election, the bill potentially increases accessibility for overseas voters. Moreover, the bill addresses instances where the deadline falls on weekends or holidays, effectively extending the cutoff to the next working day, thus aiming to enhance voter participation.
House Bill 2158 introduces amendments to the Texas Election Code that primarily focus on the deadlines for returning ballots voted by mail. The bill stipulates that marked ballots must arrive at the designated address before the polling places close on election day or no later than 5 p.m. the day after election day if sent before election day. This change aims to ensure that votes are counted efficiently while also accommodating instances where ballots are cast from outside the United States.
Discussions around HB 2158 may center on its implications for voter access and election integrity. Supporters argue that these changes could promote higher voter turnout, especially among expatriates and active military personnel who may not be able to return their ballots in a timely manner. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential risks of delayed ballot counts and how this could affect the accuracy and reliability of election outcomes. The balance between accessibility and the integrity of the electoral process is expected to be a key point of debate.