Bill > HB5256

This bill modifies Texas Election Code provisions related to polling place allocation in counties with populations over 1 million, specifically addressing the distribution of polling places across state representative districts. The bill requires that in such counties, the number of polling places within a state representative district cannot differ from the number in another district within the same county by more than one polling place. For state representative districts that span multiple counties, the number of required polling places will be proportionally reduced based on the number of qualified voters in each county, as determined by the secretary of state. The bill changes the population threshold from 400,000 to 1 million for certain election administration requirements, particularly regarding early voting polling places. These changes aim to ensure more equitable access to voting locations across different districts within large counties, potentially improving voter convenience and reducing disparities in polling place availability. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving election administrators time to prepare for the new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5256