Relating to the required use of hand-marked paper ballots for all elections.

SB 2209 mandates that all Texas counties use hand-marked paper ballots for every election, replacing current options like voting machines or electronic systems. The bill specifically amends Election Code Section 43.007(d) to require counties to implement "hand-marked scannable paper ballots" instead of direct recording electronic voting machines or ballot marking devices. This change affects all local election officials and voters in Texas counties participating in the state's election program. The bill also updates related provisions about ballot handling, poll closing times, and ballot counter requirements to align with this paper-based voting system.