Texas House Bill HB2502

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/5/25

Caption

Relating to software installed in certain voting system equipment.

Impact

The introduction of HB 2502 is viewed as a significant step towards bolstering election security and integrity in Texas. By ensuring that voting machines are equipped with monitoring and recording capabilities, the bill seeks to mitigate risks associated with election fraud and malfunctions. This change may also lead to increased public confidence in the electoral process, as voters will be aware that there are verifiable checks in place to safeguard their votes. However, the implementation of such technology may require additional funding and training for election officials, raising considerations regarding budget allocations and operational logistics.

Summary

House Bill 2502 establishes new requirements for the approval of electronic equipment used in voting systems within Texas. Specifically, the bill mandates that all voting system equipment must include software that performs three critical functions: tracking all input and activity on the device, creating a record of that information, and preventing the software from being disabled. By stipulating these features, the bill aims to enhance the accountability and transparency of electronic voting processes. The measure is set to be enacted for elections occurring on or after September 1, 2025, thus providing a timeline for the implementation of these requirements.

Contention

While proponents of the bill emphasize the necessity of these provisions for protecting democratic processes, there are concerns amongst critics regarding the potential complications and costs associated with such technology changes. Some opponents may argue that this bill could place an undue burden on local election authorities, particularly smaller counties with limited budgets and resources. Moreover, the requirement to use specific software solutions might lead to vendor lock-in, limiting the flexibility of jurisdictions to choose their technology solutions based on local needs and preferences.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

• Chapter 122. State Supervision Over Voting Systems
  • Section: New Section