BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 315

By: Cortez

Elections

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Currently, the application form for a ballot to be voted by mail allows an applicant to optionally provide their phone number on their application. While this information is optional, the early voting clerk greatly benefits when applicants do provide it. H.B. 315 seeks to require a statement to be attached to mail-in ballot applications regarding the benefits of an applicant providing their phone number on the application.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 315 amends the Election Code to include among the required contents of the officially prescribed application form for an early voting ballot to be voted by mail a statement prescribed by the secretary of state explaining the benefits of furnishing the applicant's telephone number on the form, including how the information assists the early voting clerk. The bill requires the secretary of state to make the statement available on the secretary's website.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2023.