Bill > HB3827

This bill creates a new criminal offense in the Texas Election Code that restricts how public and election officials can interact with voter registration applications. Specifically, the bill makes it a state jail felony for an official to solicit or distribute voter registration applications to people who have not requested them, including prohibiting the use of public funds to facilitate third-party distribution of unrequested applications. The law does not apply to officials providing general voter registration information, sharing applications through publicly accessible websites, or officials acting as candidates. The offense is classified as a state jail felony, which typically carries a punishment of 180 days to 2 years in jail and a potential fine. The bill allows for additional remedies like injunctive relief or mandamus actions. The legislation will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the required supermajority vote. The bill appears aimed at restricting unsolicited voter registration efforts by government officials.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3827