Bill > HB3162

This bill establishes a new accessible absentee mail voting system specifically designed for voters with disabilities who require assistive technology to mark or read ballots. The system, to be approved by the Texas Secretary of State, must meet rigorous standards including voter authentication, ballot secrecy, and strong security measures. Voters using this system must electronically mark their ballot, which will then be printed with a unique serial number and submitted through official envelopes. The system must prevent saving or transmitting ballot images, authenticate the voter using multiple identification methods, and allow for auditing. Voters will be required to swear they are eligible to vote by mail due to a physical condition preventing in-person voting, and the system must secure the voting screen to prevent exposure to political advertising during ballot marking. The bill also requires early voting clerks to provide specific balloting materials and instructions for using the accessible system, and directs the Secretary of State to develop comprehensive rules and procedures for implementing this new voting method. The new system will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving election officials time to develop and implement the necessary technological infrastructure.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3162