Bill > SB68

This bill modifies Texas election laws to allow individuals who will be 18 years old on the date of a general election to register and vote in the preceding primary elections, provided they meet all other voter eligibility requirements except age. Currently, voters must be at least 17 years and 10 months old to apply for voter registration, but this bill expands that provision to permit pre-18-year-old voters to participate specifically in primary elections. The bill requires the secretary of state to establish procedures for implementing this change and allows voter registrars to send written notices to these younger voters clarifying their limited voting eligibility. Importantly, the bill's implementation is contingent upon a related constitutional amendment being approved by voters during the 89th Legislature's Regular Session in 2025, meaning if the amendment is not approved, the bill will have no effect. This change aims to increase early voter engagement by allowing soon-to-be-18 voters to have a voice in selecting political party nominees before they can vote in general elections.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB68