Bill > HB1476

This bill adds a new option to Texas election ballots that would allow voters to explicitly select "None of the above" in each race instead of voting for a candidate. The bill requires election officials to provide a voting shape next to this option and update ballot instructions to include the ability to choose "None of the above" in each race. Importantly, votes for this option would not count toward determining which candidate wins a majority, meaning it is essentially a formal way for voters to express dissatisfaction with all candidate choices without abstaining entirely. The secretary of state would be responsible for determining the specific format and placement of this new ballot option. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, giving election officials time to prepare and implement the new ballot design. By providing this option, the bill aims to give voters a more explicit mechanism to indicate their lack of support for any candidate in a given race, potentially providing additional insight into voter sentiment beyond traditional voting or abstention.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1476