BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1593

By: Isaac

Elections

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The internet has become an important communication tool, yet there is currently no space on an application for a place on the ballot for a candidate to provide an e-mail address. Interested parties believe it could be beneficial for candidates, county clerks, election administrators, and the general public if the application form provided a space for candidates to voluntarily provide an e-mail address. To benefit candidates and others, H.B. 1593 adds a space for a candidate's e-mail address.

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. 1593 amends the Election Code to require, in the spaces that must be provided on each officially prescribed application form for a place on the ballot that a candidate is required to file, a space for the candidate's e-mail address. The bill includes, in the statement required on such a form informing the candidate that furnishing the candidate's home and office telephone numbers is optional, that furnishing the candidate's e-mail address is optional.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2011.