Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB985

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

Caption

Relating to the acceptance of a voter at a polling place.

Impact

The implications of SB985 are significant for state election laws, especially concerning voter identification and the rights of individuals seeking to vote despite potential discrepancies in their registration credentials. By streamlining the information provided to voters who may initially be turned away, the bill aims to enhance voter participation and ensure that more eligible voters can have their voices heard, albeit through a provisional ballot procedure.

Summary

SB985 is a legislative bill focusing on the acceptance of voters at polling places, specifically addressing the provisions surrounding provisional voting. The bill seeks to clarify the process when voters do not meet the identification requirements as set out in existing legislation. It provides election officers with specific guidelines on how to inform rejected voters about their rights to cast provisional ballots, including supplying them with written information outlining the necessary steps and requirements for doing so.

Contention

While the bill appears to promote voter access, some points of contention may arise regarding the broader implications of its provisions. Critics may argue that while it aids in provisional voting, it does not address deeper issues surrounding voter suppression or the complexities tied to voter identification laws. Additionally, the delegation of additional responsibilities to election officers could provoke discussions about their preparedness to handle such tasks, which might affect the efficiency and integrity of the electoral process.

Companion Bills

TX HB1177

Identical Relating to the acceptance of a voter at a polling place.

Previously Filed As

TX SB93

Relating to the registration of voters at a polling place and related procedures.

TX HB239

Relating to requiring a voter to be affiliated with a political party to vote in that party's primary election or otherwise participate in that party's affairs; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3748

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

TX HB676

Relating to the procedures for voting after changing residence to another county.

TX SB116

Relating to requiring a voter to present proof of identification.

TX HB4780

Relating to early voting ballots voted by mail.

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.

TX HB1270

Relating to the registration of voters at a polling place and related procedures.

TX HB281

Relating to the registration of voters at a polling place and related procedures.

TX HB488

Relating to the registration of voters at a polling place and related procedures.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.