Bill > SB341

This bill introduces preferential voting for special elections in Texas that require a majority vote to fill a vacancy. Under the new system, voters can rank candidates from most to least preferred, and if no candidate receives an immediate majority, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed to voters' next preferred candidates. This process continues until one candidate achieves a majority. The bill eliminates traditional primary elections and runoff elections for these special elections, with the secretary of state responsible for establishing the ballot filing deadlines and voting procedures. Specifically, voters will be able to numerically rank candidates on the ballot, allowing for a more nuanced expression of voter preference compared to traditional "first-past-the-post" voting. The new voting system would apply to special elections to fill vacancies in offices that normally require a majority vote, and the changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025. The bill also repeals several existing sections of the Election Code related to previous election procedures, streamlining the process for these special elections.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB341