Bill > HB1298

This bill modifies Texas election law regarding early voting procedures, expanding the flexibility and potential duration of early voting periods. Specifically, the bill introduces the concept of an "extended early voting period" that can begin as early as the 19th day before an election and continue for multiple consecutive days up to three days before the election. For primary and general elections, the bill maintains existing requirements for Saturday and Sunday voting hours (at least 12 hours on Saturday between 6 am and 10 pm, and at least 6 hours on Sunday between 9 am and 10 pm), but adds a new provision that any extended early voting period must include at least 12 hours of voting on weekdays and Saturdays, and at least 5 hours on Sundays. The bill also clarifies that if an authority orders extended early voting, they must do so upon receiving a written request from at least 15 registered voters in the election's territory. Additionally, the bill updates various related sections of the Election Code to accommodate these changes, ensuring that voter registration offices remain open during extended voting hours and that election notices accurately reflect the new voting schedule. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, providing election officials ample time to prepare for the new voting protocols.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1298