Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3107

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

Caption

Relating to statements made by an election officer in a joint primary election.

Note

The bill is structured to take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature, or otherwise by September 1, 2015. This conditional enactment highlights the urgency and significance attributed to regulating election officer conduct as it relates to maintaining fair electoral practices in Texas.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3107 will specifically impact the ways in which election officers interact with voters, effectively enforcing a stricter code of conduct designed to prevent potential biases in the electoral process. By limiting the degree to which election officers can engage with voters about party affiliation and specific races, the bill aims to reduce the possibility of perceived or actual electioneering at polling locations. This could enhance voter confidence in the impartiality of election administration.

Summary

House Bill 3107 addresses the conduct of election officers during joint primary elections in Texas. The bill seeks to amend Section 172.126 of the Election Code by introducing a new subsection that restricts election officers from making specific statements to voters. These restrictions include prohibitions against suggesting a party's ballot to voters or discussing any races that appear on the ballot with them. The intention behind this legislation is to ensure the integrity of the voting process and to maintain impartiality among election officials.

Contention

The bill's passage may prompt discussions regarding the balance between voter assistance and the prevention of electioneering. While proponents may argue that the bill is necessary to protect the integrity of elections, there could be concerns raised about the impacts on voter engagement and the ability of election officers to assist voters effectively. Critics might contend that overly strict regulations could hinder election officers from providing necessary information to voters, thereby creating confusion or difficulties in the voting process.

Companion Bills

TX SB1074

Identical Relating to statements made by an election officer in a joint primary election.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1112

Relating to preferential voting in a primary election.

TX HB702

Relating to the conduct of primary elections.

TX HB1536

Relating to allowing a person who will be 18 years of age on the date of the general election for state and county officers to vote in the preceding primary elections.

TX SB56

Relating to allowing a person who will be 18 years of age on the date of the general election for state and county officers to vote in the preceding primary elections.

TX SB2531

Relating to nominations by primary election by all political parties.

TX SB1705

Relating to nominations by primary election by certain political parties.

TX SB2464

Relating to elections.

TX HB294

Relating to the separation of federal elections from state and local elections, and to related practices and procedures.

TX SB398

Relating to the separation of federal elections from state and local elections, and to related practices and procedures.

TX HB32

Relating to the separation of federal elections from state and local elections, and to related practices and procedures.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.