Bill > SB511

This bill establishes new restrictions on how voter registration application forms can be distributed by state and local government employees. Specifically, government officers and employees are prohibited from distributing voter registration forms to individuals who have not specifically requested them, with some exceptions for political parties, elected officials, and candidates. The bill also requires government offices where voter registration forms are available to display notices about form availability in English, Spanish, and any other languages required for election materials in that jurisdiction. Violations of these rules would be considered criminal offenses: distributing unrequested forms would be a Class C misdemeanor, while entering into a contract with a third-party vendor to distribute such forms would be a Class A misdemeanor. The legislation aims to regulate the distribution of voter registration applications and create accountability for government employees handling these forms, with the provisions set to take effect on September 1, 2025. A misdemeanor is a criminal offense typically less serious than a felony, with Class C being the lowest level and Class A being more severe.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB511