Bill > SB309

This bill modifies Texas Election Code requirements for voter registration by mandating that individuals provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote. Specifically, the bill requires the Texas Secretary of State to establish rules requiring voter registration applicants to submit documentation demonstrating their citizenship status, to the extent permitted by federal law, including the National Voter Registration Act and a relevant Supreme Court case (Arizona v. Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, Inc.). By January 1, 2026, the Secretary of State must request that the federal Election Assistance Commission modify the national mail voter registration form to include a citizenship documentation requirement for Texas registrants. If the federal commission does not comply within 180 days of the request, the Texas Attorney General is directed to seek legal enforcement. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, giving state officials time to prepare implementation procedures. This legislation aims to strengthen voter eligibility verification by adding an additional documentation requirement beyond the current voter registration process.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB309