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The House Research Organization published its “Topics for the 89th Legislature” on February 20th, which is a list of key issues for discussion in this session.
Here is the “Elections” section under the General Government heading:
“Lawmakers could consider several proposals on elections, including strategies to curb noncitizen voting, interference by certain technologies, and illegal electioneering. They also could consider proposals to protect ballot secrecy and amend the Countywide Polling Place Program.
Election security. Legislators could consider potential ballot security policies, including establishing penalties for revealing certain ballot information, redrawing precincts to avoid small precincts, and encouraging data aggregation among smaller precincts, as individual ballots are more easily identifiable in precincts where fewer people voted. Additionally, lawmakers could establish processes to enhance cybersecurity in elections and restrict access to certain sensitive voting data. The Legislature also could consider requiring election officials to respond within an established time period to requests for explanations of election irregularities.
Noncitizen voting. Lawmakers could consider proposals requiring Texans to provide proof of citizenship and photo ID to vote. Additionally, legislators may opt to amend laws to further facilitate the removal of noncitizen voters from Texas voter rolls and prevent noncitizens from registering to vote.
Illegally influencing elections. The Legislature could consider proposals to prohibit using certain political advertising manipulated by artificial intelligence. Additionally, they could amend the Election Code to specify unlawful uses of public resources by school districts and open-enrollment charter schools for electioneering and certain other political activities aimed at influencing elections.
Countywide Polling Place Program. In 2007, the 80th Legislature passed HB 3105 by Anchía, which established the Countywide Polling Place Program, allowing counties to permit voters to vote at any polling location in their county on Election Day, rather than being limited to their assigned precinct location. The 89th Legislature could consider proposals to limit or eliminate the program.
Election education. The Legislature could consider policies to expand programs for voter education and training opportunities for election officials and volunteers.”
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