Bill > HB2281

This bill establishes automatic voter registration for eligible Texas residents when they interact with certain government agencies, specifically the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and voter registration agencies. Under the new law, county voter registrars will automatically register eligible residents who are issued or make changes to a Texas driver's license or personal identification card, or who apply for services from a voter registration agency. Individuals can opt out of automatic registration by indicating that a transaction is not for voter registration purposes or by filing a declination form. The bill modifies existing election code to require agencies to combine service application forms with voter registration forms, mandate that agency employees inform applicants about voter registration opportunities, and establish procedures for electronically transferring voter registration information to the secretary of state. The bill mandates that agency forms allow individuals to specify if an address change or transaction is not intended for voter registration. These changes aim to simplify and streamline the voter registration process by making it more automatic and integrated with existing government interactions. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to implement the new procedures.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2281