Bill > SB107

This bill makes several modifications to Texas election record management procedures. The bill extends the mandatory preservation period for precinct election records from 22 to 36 months and introduces more detailed tracking and documentation requirements for ballots and election materials. Specifically, election registers must now include the serial number ranges of ballots received, provided, and spoiled. Provisional ballots must be placed in separate, precinct-specific envelopes, and rejected provisional ballots must be stored in segregated, sealed envelopes. The bill mandates that ballot boxes and secure containers containing voted ballots be maintained with enhanced security measures, including uniquely numbered seals to ensure chain of custody. Additionally, the legislation requires the general custodian of election records to create and publicly share an index of voted ballots by precinct and polling place, and to post ballot images with serial numbers online within five days of an election. When opening ballot boxes for any authorized reason, the process must now be witnessed by two individuals who will sign a sworn statement documenting the action. These changes aim to improve transparency, accountability, and record-keeping in the election process, with the provisions set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB107