Bill > HB4246

This bill modifies Texas Election Code provisions related to countywide polling places, shifting from a state-implemented program to a county-optional approach. The bill allows each county commissioners court to voluntarily eliminate traditional precinct-based polling places and establish countywide polling places for various types of elections, including county elections, joint elections, primary elections, and elections for political subdivisions. Counties choosing to implement countywide polling places must adopt a methodology for selecting polling locations and ensure a minimum number of polling places (50% of previous precinct polling places, or 65% in the first year of implementation). The bill requires counties using countywide polling places to create a voter notification plan, such as posting information about the nearest polling place at previous election locations. Additionally, the bill updates technical requirements for electronic voting devices, mandating they can time-stamp voter check-ins, transmit data across polling locations in real-time, and maintain compatibility with the statewide voter registration system. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving counties time to prepare for potential implementation of this more flexible polling place approach.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4246