Bill > HB1670

This bill modifies Texas election law to require voters to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote, with the goal of more rigorously verifying voter eligibility. Specifically, the bill amends the Election Code to mandate that individuals seeking voter registration must submit documented proof of citizenship, to the extent permitted by federal law, including the National Voter Registration Act and a relevant Supreme Court decision (Arizona v. Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, Inc.). The bill directs the Texas Secretary of State to develop rules specifying the exact citizenship documentation requirements by January 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of State to request that the federal Election Assistance Commission modify the national mail voter registration application to include a citizenship proof requirement. If the commission does not comply within 180 days of the request, the Texas Attorney General is instructed to seek legal enforcement. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on September 1, 2025, giving state officials time to develop and implement the new citizenship verification procedures for voter registration.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1670