Bill > HB4288

This bill makes several modifications to the Texas Election Code related to election record administration and public access. It expands the definition of circumstances under which an election-related act can be considered timely if performed on the next business day, introducing a new concept of "force majeure" that includes natural disasters, acts of war, terrorism, civil disturbances, and new statutory or regulatory requirements. The bill changes the timeline for public inspection of original voted ballots from 61 to 300 days after election day and introduces confidentiality protections for certain voter-related electronic information, such as poll list timestamps and ballot serial numbers. Additionally, the bill clarifies that for in-person submissions with specific deadlines, the submission will be accepted if the person or document entered the office before the prescribed time. These changes aim to provide more flexibility in election procedures, protect voter privacy, and establish clearer guidelines for record-keeping and public access. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4288