Bill > SB985

This bill modifies the Texas Election Code to provide more flexibility for combining election precincts under certain circumstances. Specifically, the bill allows commissioners courts or county executive committees of political parties to combine election precincts if redistricting results in precincts with fewer than 3,000 registered voters, or if they cannot secure a suitable polling place location. The bill establishes guidelines for these precinct combinations, including a maximum limit of 10,000 registered voters per combined precinct. Importantly, any precinct combination is prohibited if it would dilute voting strength or representation for groups protected under the federal Voting Rights Act, or discourage participation by these groups. The bill also clarifies that for the purpose of appointing election judges, a combined precinct will be treated as a single precinct. These changes aim to help counties manage election logistics more efficiently while maintaining voting rights protections. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB985