Bill > SB1863

This bill enhances the state of Texas's election audit procedures by expanding and detailing the secretary of state's responsibilities for conducting randomized county election audits. The bill increases the number of counties audited from four to 16 per election cycle, with specific requirements about county population sizes, and mandates that counties and political subdivisions register with the state and provide advance notice of elections. The audits will now comprehensively examine multiple aspects of election administration, including voter registration lists, voting equipment testing, chain of custody documentation, early voting procedures, and provisional ballot processes. The secretary of state must conduct these audits after election periods, publish detailed reports that include major findings and potential election impact, and allow local election officials to review and comment on draft reports. Additionally, the bill introduces a pilot program to develop a ballot accounting procedure, where one selected county will be audited using a new method aimed at tracking each prepared ballot. The bill includes provisions for potential penalties if local election officials fail to cooperate with audit requests, such as withholding state election expense reimbursements. These changes are designed to increase transparency and confidence in the election process, with the audit provisions set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1863