Texas House Bill HB4228

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/10/25

Caption

Relating to prohibiting an officer or employee of a political subdivision of this state from distributing certain voter registration application forms.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4228 will significantly impact how voter registration drives are conducted at the local government level. This change is intended to streamline voter registration processes by restricting the proactive distribution of registration forms. However, it raises concerns regarding voter accessibility, as individuals who may benefit from outreach efforts will no longer receive unsolicited assistance in registering to vote, potentially discouraging participation among certain communities.

Summary

House Bill 4228 is a legislative proposal which seeks to amend Chapter 13 of the Election Code in Texas by introducing a new provision that prohibits officers or employees of political subdivisions from distributing voter registration application forms to individuals who have not expressly requested them. The bill emphasizes the intention to regulate the distribution of these application forms strictly through channels initiated by the voter rather than through unsolicited outreach by government officials.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding HB 4228 revolves around its implications for voter turnout. Proponents of the bill may argue that it establishes a clear boundary for government outreach in voter registration, aiming to prevent potential fraud or misuse of public resources. Critics, however, highlight that limiting the distribution of registration forms could disproportionately affect marginalized groups, who may rely on proactive outreach to navigate the voting process. This conflict reflects a broader discussion on balancing election integrity with the accessibility of voting rights for all citizens.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

• Chapter 13. Application For Registration; Initial Registration
  • Section: New Section