Texas Senate Bill SB1601

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to ensuring election integrity, including through periodic voter registration; creating criminal offenses; imposing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, SB1601 would modify several sections of the Election Code, introducing harsher penalties for voting infractions and mandating more rigorous information disclosures on voter registration applications. This includes statements warning applicants about the consequences of providing false information. The implications for state law are considerable, potentially expanding the role of state oversight in local elections and altering how voter registration is handled across Texas.

Summary

SB1601 seeks to ensure election integrity in Texas by implementing measures related to periodic voter registration and creating new criminal offenses associated with voting violations. Specifically, the bill amends existing legislation to enhance the requirements for voter registration forms and establishes penalties for both voters and election officers who violate voting regulations. The bill's provisions aim to increase accountability and deter fraudulent voting practices, which supporters argue are necessary for maintaining public confidence in the electoral process.

Contention

The bill has drawn controversy from various advocacy groups and some legislators who view the enhanced criminalization of voting-related infractions as an attempt to disenfranchise eligible voters, particularly among marginalized communities. Opponents argue that the provisions may lead to intimidation and confusion for voters and that the proposed penalties could disproportionately affect certain demographics. The debate surrounding SB1601 highlights the ongoing tension in Texas politics regarding access to voting and election security.