Texas House Bill HB326

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a strategic plan by the secretary of state to increase voter turnout.

Impact

The passage of HB 326 could have a significant impact on state election laws, particularly concerning the mechanisms by which the Secretary of State engages with voters. By focusing on evidence-based strategies, this bill aims to create a systematic approach to increase voter engagement, thereby increasing the likelihood of higher turnout rates in future elections. If effectively implemented, it could reshape how the state addresses voter turnout, potentially leading to increased civic engagement across diverse demographic groups.

Summary

House Bill 326 is a legislative proposal in Texas aimed at enhancing voter turnout through a strategic plan formulated by the Secretary of State. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to develop and implement evidence-based methods to increase voter participation. This involves collaboration with institutions of higher education to determine effective measures and performance benchmarks. The progress report on the effectiveness of this plan must be submitted biennially to the relevant legislative committees, ensuring accountability and transparency in efforts to boost electoral participation.

Contention

As with many legislation pieces concerning elections, the potential points of contention surrounding HB 326 could include the methodologies chosen for increasing voter turnout and the balance of resources allocated for this program. Opponents may argue about the practicality and effectiveness of prescribed strategies, and there could be concerns over whether the approaches chosen respect the diverse needs of Texas voters. The bill's expiration date of January 1, 2025, also raises questions about the long-term commitment to voter engagement beyond the initial phases of implementation.