Bill > SB2974

This bill strengthens election law enforcement in Texas by establishing a comprehensive system of state election marshals and expanding investigative and legal powers related to potential election violations. The bill creates a new role of state election marshal, who will be appointed by the secretary of state and stationed in each Department of Public Safety region, with one marshal per 1,000,000 residents. These marshals must be licensed peace officers with specific election law training and will have the power to investigate alleged election code violations supported by affidavits or declarations. If a marshal finds probable cause of a potential violation, they can take preventative actions, seek court orders, and file criminal charges. The bill also expands the secretary of state's authority to protect voting rights and correct improper electoral conduct, broadens who can file injunctive relief in election disputes (including candidates and political parties), and establishes a system of emergency election review judges who can quickly hear and respond to election-related legal actions. Additionally, the bill modifies rules about impounding election records and equipment and creates special procedures for judicial assignments in election-related legal proceedings to ensure impartiality. The provisions are designed to enhance election integrity and provide more robust mechanisms for addressing potential electoral misconduct.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2974