Bill > HB522

This bill establishes a new chapter in the Texas Election Code to provide accessible voting options for voters with certain disabilities who are eligible to vote by mail and would typically require assistance at a polling place. The secretary of state will be required to develop an online assistive tool that allows these voters to complete mail-in ballot applications and mark ballots independently using assistive technology. Voters can print and submit their completed applications and ballots through existing mail-in voting processes, and can also request email transmission of balloting materials. The bill modifies existing election code sections to accommodate these new provisions, such as how early voting clerks handle ballots sent via both regular mail and email, and how ballot rejection notices are delivered. These changes will apply to elections ordered on or after September 1, 2025, and are designed to enhance voting accessibility for voters with disabilities by providing them more independent and convenient methods to participate in the electoral process.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB522