Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4190

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

Caption

Relating to voting a limited ballot following the change of the county of residence by a voter.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4190 will amend existing sections of the Election Code, allowing voters who change their residence to cast limited ballots during early voting or on election day. The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria, which includes factors like active voter registration in the previous county and the timeline of the voter registration in the new county. This initiative aims to streamline the voting experience for constituents who may find it cumbersome to navigate the registration process immediately after relocating, potentially increasing voter turnout during elections.

Summary

House Bill 4190 aims to modify the procedures surrounding voting for individuals who have recently changed their county of residence. Under the proposed legislation, voters are permitted to vote a limited ballot if they were previously registered in their former county, even if their new voter registration is not yet active at the time of the election. This change is designed to provide flexibility and accessibility in the voting process for individuals who relocate and ensures that they can still participate in elections without being disenfranchised due to their recent move.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 4190 appears to be supportive among those who advocate for expanded voting access and flexibility. Advocates argue this bill is necessary to address the challenges faced by voters who move frequently, thereby preventing disenfranchisement. However, there may also be concerns regarding the potential for confusion in the voting process and the administrative burden placed on election officials tasked with implementing these changes. This dual perspective reflects the ongoing discourse in legislative sessions about balancing accessibility with effective election management.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the implementation of the provisions outlined in HB 4190. Critics may express concern about how the changes could affect the integrity of elections, particularly regarding the validation of voter eligibility in a timely manner. Additionally, debates may center on the potential administrative impact on local election officials as they adapt to these new procedures, with some advocating for additional resources or support to successfully implement the bill. Overall, the discussions surrounding HB 4190 highlight the complexity of voting laws and the necessity of aligning them with the evolving needs of the electorate.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

  • Chapter 112. Voting Limited Ballot After Changing County Of Residence
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.