Bill > HB665

This bill requires the Texas Secretary of State to create and maintain two new public internet databases: one for election information and another for incumbent and candidate details. For the election information database, local authorities (counties, cities, school districts, and political parties) must provide annual information about elections for partisan offices, mayoral positions, and city or school district governing body roles. The database will include details such as the offices being filled, election type (at-large or by district), term duration, and election dates. The candidate and incumbent database will feature more comprehensive information, including names, office titles, contact information (mailing address, phone, email), and whether the position is elected at-large or by district. Local entities must submit this information to their county, which will then forward it to the Secretary of State. The county or political party filing a candidate's declaration of candidacy is responsible for providing the necessary details. The Secretary of State is required to adopt rules for implementing these new database requirements and will maintain the websites, keeping information about partisan officeholders available for the duration of their terms. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to increase transparency and accessibility of election-related information for Texas voters.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB665