Bill > HB1216

This bill modifies Texas Election Code provisions regarding volunteer deputy registrars, expanding their powers and clarifying their appointment and service conditions. Specifically, the bill prevents registrars from refusing to appoint a volunteer deputy registrar who distributes voter registration application forms provided by the state secretary, adds language to appointment certificates specifying potential termination conditions, clarifies that county compensation for volunteer deputy registrars requires commissioners court authorization, and significantly expands the geographical scope of volunteer deputy registrars' service. Under the new provisions, volunteer deputy registrars can now distribute and receive voter registration applications throughout the entire state, regardless of the specific county in which they were originally appointed, with the secretary of state responsible for establishing implementation procedures. The bill aims to make voter registration more flexible and accessible by removing geographic restrictions on volunteer deputy registrars' activities. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving state election authorities time to prepare for the new rules.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1216