H.B. No. 521 aims to enhance accommodations for voters with disabilities and establishes new criminal offenses related to electioneering near polling places. The bill amends Section 61.003(a) of the Election Code to prohibit loitering or electioneering within 100 feet of polling place entrances and within 20 feet of designated curbside voting parking spaces. Additionally, it modifies Section 64.009 to require election officers to deliver ballots to voters who are physically unable to enter polling places, provided they complete a specific form affirming their condition. The bill also mandates that designated parking areas for curbside voting be clearly marked and include information on how to request assistance.

Further provisions include the requirement for individuals assisting voters to complete a form detailing their relationship to the voter and any compensation received. The bill introduces penalties for failing to complete required forms and classifies such offenses as Class A misdemeanors. It also stipulates that the county clerk must report individuals who assist multiple voters during early voting and on election day. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 64.009, Election Code 64.0322, Election Code 64.036 (Election Code 64)
House Committee Report: Election Code 61.003, Election Code 64.009, Election Code 64.0322, Election Code 85.036 (Election Code 61, Election Code 85, Election Code 64)
Engrossed: Election Code 61.003, Election Code 64.009, Election Code 64.0322, Election Code 85.036 (Election Code 61, Election Code 85, Election Code 64)
Senate Committee Report: Election Code 61.003, Election Code 64.009, Election Code 64.0322, Election Code 85.036 (Election Code 61, Election Code 85, Election Code 64)
Enrolled: Election Code 61.003, Election Code 64.009, Election Code 64.0322, Election Code 85.036 (Election Code 61, Election Code 85, Election Code 64)