Bill > SB2362

This bill creates a new criminal offense in the Texas Election Code that restricts how public and election officials can handle voter registration applications. Specifically, the bill makes it a state jail felony (a criminal offense with potential jail time and fines) for a public or election official to solicit or distribute voter registration applications to people who have not specifically requested them. The law prohibits officials from: 1) soliciting voter registration applications from unrequested individuals, 2) distributing unrequested applications, 3) using public funds to distribute applications to those who didn't request them, and 4) completing and distributing voter registration applications. There are important exceptions to these restrictions, including when officials provide general information about voter registration, access voter registration applications through publicly accessible websites, or are acting as candidates for public office. The bill allows for additional legal remedies such as injunctive relief or mandamus proceedings beyond the criminal penalty. The law would 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 immediate voting threshold.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2362