Texas Senate Bill SB2226

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the time period for conducting early voting at a temporary branch early voting polling place.

Impact

The legislation specifies that if at least five temporary branch polling places are established in a certain territory, at least 80 percent of these locations must conduct voting on the same days and during the same hours as the main early voting polling place. This provision is intended to streamline the voting experience and ensure consistency across polling locations, enhancing voter accessibility and reducing confusion during elections.

Summary

SB2226 amends the Election Code of Texas concerning the early voting process at temporary branch polling places. The bill allows early voting by personal appearance at these locations to be conducted on any days and during any hours as determined by the authority overseeing the branch. This flexibility aims to facilitate increased voter participation by accommodating various schedules and needs.

Contention

Some potential points of contention around SB2226 could arise regarding the specific hours and days that early voting will be allowed. Critics may argue that the lack of standardization could lead to disparities in access to voting across different regions or create confusion among voters. Additionally, the exclusion of church facilities from being considered as temporary polling places might generate discussion about equitable access to voting locations, particularly in areas where such venues could serve as accessible polling sites.