Texas House Bill HB1152

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to the signature required on a carrier envelope for a ballot voted by mail.

Impact

By allowing electronic and photocopied signatures under specific circumstances, HB 1152 could significantly impact the way voting by mail is conducted in Texas. This amendment may help alleviate some barriers faced by voters who rely on mail-in ballots, thus potentially increasing voter participation, particularly among elderly individuals or those with disabilities. The bill stipulates that these accommodations can only be made to a reasonable extent, which aims to maintain the integrity of the voting process while promoting inclusivity.

Summary

House Bill 1152 seeks to amend the Election Code of Texas by modifying the signature requirements for carrier envelopes associated with mail-in ballots. The primary focus of the bill is to allow electronic signatures and photocopied signatures as acceptable forms of identification for voters who are unable to sign by hand. This change is aimed at making the voting process more accessible for individuals with disabilities or other challenges that prevent them from providing a traditional handwritten signature. The bill represents a shift toward accommodating a broader range of voters and acknowledges the need for flexibility in voting procedures.

Contention

Despite the positive implications for voter accessibility, there may be contention surrounding the implementation of electronic signatures. Opponents of such measures often argue that expanding signature options could pose risks for election security and voter identification verification. Concerns may arise regarding the potential for fraud or misuse of mail-in ballots when signatures are not strictly monitored. As HB 1152 progresses through the legislative process, these discussions highlight the ongoing balancing act between ensuring accessible voting and maintaining election security standards.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

• Chapter 86. Conduct Of Voting By Mail
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0051