Bill > HB3523

This bill introduces a new procedure for military family members to register and vote at polling places in Texas, even if they are not pre-registered voters. Specifically, the bill allows active-duty military members, their spouses, and children to vote by presenting a valid military ID and additional proof of identification such as a Texas driver's license, military orders, or a utility bill. To be eligible, these individuals must submit a voter registration application at the polling place and meet certain criteria, including having an address within the state. The bill requires that these voters be processed separately from regular voters and mandates that the secretary of state develop rules to implement this process fairly and ensure accountability. The new voting procedure will apply to elections with early voting beginning on or after February 1, 2026, and the secretary of state must adopt implementing rules by that date. Additionally, the bill requires that at least one election officer at each polling place be appointed as a deputy registrar to facilitate this new registration process. The bill aims to make voting more accessible for military families who may have frequent relocations or temporary residency in Texas.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3523