H.B. No. 1002 amends various sections of the Texas Election Code to enhance the management and preservation of election records. Key changes include the requirement for the register to include additional details such as the range of serial numbers for ballots received and provided to voters, as well as the serial numbers of spoiled ballots. The bill also mandates that rejected provisional ballots be placed in segregated envelopes marked by precinct and prohibits these envelopes from being mixed with accepted provisional ballots or other election records. Furthermore, it extends the preservation period for precinct election records to at least 36 months and introduces new protocols for securely transferring and indexing voted ballots.

Additional provisions include the establishment of a uniquely numbered seal for secure containers holding ballots, ensuring a documented chain of custody. The bill also stipulates that any opening of ballot boxes must be witnessed by two individuals who will sign a sworn statement regarding the process. The general custodian of election records is tasked with posting ballot images online within five days after the election, further promoting transparency. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 65.013, Election Code 65.055, Election Code 65.056, Election Code 66.002, Election Code 279.001, Election Code 66.058, Election Code 66.059, Election Code 66.060, Election Code 66.025 (Election Code 279, Election Code 65, Election Code 66)