The bill, H.B. No. 417, aims to expand early voting by mail for qualified voters in Texas and repeals certain criminal offenses related to the solicitation and distribution of mail-in voting applications. Key amendments include changes to the eligibility criteria for early voting by mail, allowing any qualified voter to vote either by mail or in person, and clarifying that individuals certified in the address confidentiality program must submit their applications for mail-in voting in person. Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for early voting ballot applications, including the information that must be provided by applicants, such as their driver's license number or social security number, and the addresses to which ballots should be mailed based on specific circumstances.

The bill also repeals several sections of the Election Code that previously governed mail-in voting, streamlining the process and removing outdated provisions. Notably, it eliminates the requirement for applicants to state a legal ground for voting by mail, thereby simplifying the application process. The changes introduced by this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and are intended to enhance voter accessibility and participation in elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 13.002, Election Code 82.005, Election Code 82.007, Election Code 84.001, Election Code 84.002, Election Code 84.009, Election Code 84.011, Election Code 86.001, Election Code 86.0015, Election Code 86.003, Election Code 86.004, Election Code 87.041, Election Code 102.001 (Election Code 87, Election Code 13, Election Code 84, Election Code 86, Election Code 102, Election Code 82)