H.B. No. 677 amends Section 31.035(a) of the Election Code to impose stricter restrictions on the political activities of county elections administrators. The bill specifies that a county elections administrator is prohibited from being a candidate for public office or an office of a political party, holding a public office, or holding another office or position appointed by an elected official. If an administrator violates this provision by becoming a candidate or accepting such an office or position, they will vacate their role as administrator. The changes introduced by this bill will only apply to appointments of county elections administrators made on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Individuals serving as county elections administrators prior to this date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This ensures a transition period for current administrators while establishing clearer guidelines for future appointments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 31.035 (Election Code 31)
House Committee Report: Election Code 31.035 (Election Code 31)
Engrossed: Election Code 31.035 (Election Code 31)
Senate Committee Report: Election Code 31.035 (Election Code 31)
Enrolled: Election Code 31.035 (Election Code 31)