Bill > HB4902

This bill introduces several changes to Texas voter registration laws aimed at strengthening voter eligibility verification. It requires individuals registering to vote to provide proof of citizenship, which the secretary of state will develop rules for in compliance with federal law. The bill allows the secretary of state to contract with private entities to maintain the statewide voter registration list, enabling them to cross-reference voter information with national databases to identify potential ineligible or duplicate registrations. These private contractors can flag voters who may not be U.S. citizens, who do not reside at their registered address, or who are otherwise unqualified to vote. County registrars will then be required to review such information and potentially send confirmation notices to voters. Additionally, the bill requires the secretary of state to request that the federal Election Assistance Commission modify the national voter registration form to include citizenship documentation, with the attorney general prepared to seek legal enforcement if the commission does not comply. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to voter registration applications submitted on or after that date, with the goal of ensuring more accurate voter rolls and preventing potential voter registration fraud.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4902