Texas House Bill HB66

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to automatic voter registration on issuance or change of a driver's license or identification card by the Department of Public Safety.

Impact

If passed, HB66 would amend several sections of the Election Code, specifically adding provisions for automatic voter registration. The DPS would need to adjust their procedures to ensure they adequately capture voter registration information alongside routine license renewals and applications. This could potentially lead to a significant increase in registered voters, as more residents would be entered into the system without requiring additional steps on their part.

Summary

House Bill 66 aims to simplify the voter registration process in Texas by implementing an automatic voter registration system tied to the issuance or changes made to a driver's license or identification card through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). The bill proposes that eligible individuals applying for these documents will automatically be registered to vote unless they denote otherwise. This approach seeks to streamline the registration process and make voting more accessible for Texas residents.

Contention

While HB66 may improve voter registration numbers, it could also spark debate over concerns related to its implementation. Critics may question the accuracy of the data exchanged between the DPS and voter registrars, particularly regarding changes of address and eligibility. Furthermore, there could be arguments regarding privacy and the handling of personal information, as well as political concerns around the influence of easier registration processes on election outcomes.