Bill > SB1584

This bill modifies Texas election laws to expand and clarify early voting by mail for qualified voters. The legislation makes several key changes, including removing previous restrictions on who can vote by mail and allowing any qualified voter to request a mail-in ballot. The bill updates requirements for early voting ballot applications, specifying that applicants must provide identification information such as a driver's license number, the last four digits of their social security number, or a statement that they have not been issued such identification. It also clarifies rules for specific groups like voters who are absent from their county, over 65, confined in jail, or living in a long-term care facility. The bill removes several previous criminal offenses related to soliciting or distributing vote-by-mail applications and allows state officers and employees to distribute ballot application forms to eligible voters six months before an election. Additionally, the legislation repeals multiple existing sections of the Election Code related to early voting qualifications and makes these changes applicable to elections ordered on or after September 1, 2025. The overall effect is to make early voting by mail more accessible and streamline the voting process for Texas residents.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1584