Bill > HB703

This bill enhances election law enforcement in Texas by expanding the powers of the Secretary of State and creating a new system of election marshals. Specifically, the Secretary of State will now have broader authority to protect voting rights and address potential electoral process violations, including ordering corrections to offending conduct. The bill establishes a state election marshal position who will appoint regional election marshals across Texas, with qualifications including being a licensed peace officer and receiving election law training. These election marshals will have the power to investigate alleged election code violations, supported by affidavits, and can take actions such as seeking court orders or filing criminal charges to prevent potential violations. The legislation also introduces new provisions for emergency judicial review of election-related issues, including the appointment of specialized emergency election review judges who can quickly hear and rule on time-sensitive election dispute cases. Additionally, the bill expands who can file injunctive relief in election matters, explicitly including candidates, political parties, and party chairs, and allows courts to issue subpoenas and order inspections of election records or equipment. These changes aim to strengthen election integrity and provide more robust mechanisms for addressing potential electoral misconduct.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB703