Bill > SB2309

This bill, called the Ballot Box Election Security, Transparency, and Accountability Act, proposes several changes to Texas election procedures aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in the election process. The bill expands the rights of election watchers by allowing them to observe more detailed aspects of election activities, including starting up and closing voting system equipment, inspecting ballot boxes, and following the transfer of election materials to various locations like tabulating centers and storage sites. For counties with populations of 100,000 or more, the bill mandates a comprehensive video surveillance system that must cover all areas containing voted ballots, with a livestream that includes a visible analog clock. The bill also requires that candidates and political action committee treasurers can have representatives present during ballot counting procedures, with specific documentation requirements for these representatives. Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for violations of these new regulations, with first-time offenses classified as Class A misdemeanors and subsequent offenses escalating to third-degree felonies. The proposed changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and are intended to enhance election integrity by providing more opportunities for observation and documentation of election processes.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2309