Technology (Elections)

HB 4728 requires all Texas counties to use hand-marked paper ballots for every election, eliminating electronic poll lists and ending the countywide polling place program. It directly affects every county in Texas, particularly those previously exempt under Section 42.0051(a) (populations under 1.2 million not using countywide polling centers). The bill repeals the exception allowing electronic systems in certain counties, mandating paper ballots statewide. Key mechanisms include removing the countywide program exemption and requiring election officials to provide written ballot instructions and assistance options for voters.

SB 77 requires polling places using electronic voting systems to provide voters with a paper ballot upon request, which must be printed immediately and scanned after voting. It bans the use of ballot marking devices entirely and prohibits electronic signatures, electronic poll lists, and electronic combination forms in elections. This bill directly affects voters and election officials in Texas counties that use electronic voting systems for elections held on or after September 1, 2025. The law mandates paper ballot access as an alternative to electronic voting, ensuring a physical ballot option for every voter who requests one.

HB 1834 requires election officials in Texas counties with fewer than 75,000 residents to use paper ballots for all elections. It mandates that these counties maintain operational ballot printers at every polling place to produce physical ballots and prohibits the use of electronic voting systems that do not require paper ballots. The bill directly affects small-county election operations, ensuring all ballots are printed on paper rather than relying solely on electronic systems. It takes effect on September 1, 2025.

HB 3361 eliminates electronic poll lists and the countywide polling place program in Texas elections. It bans the use of electronic devices to accept voters (Section 63.0016) and repeals all related provisions, including those governing electronic poll lists and the countywide program (repealing Sections 31.014, 43.007, and others). The bill applies statewide, directly affecting county election offices that previously used electronic systems or the countywide polling program. It takes effect September 1, 2025, requiring counties to transition to paper-based voter check-in processes.