The bill, H.B. No. 1478, addresses the responsibilities of voter registrars in Texas and the consequences of failing to comply with voter registration laws. It transfers and redesignates Section 16.039 of the Election Code to Section 12.007, while amending the language to clarify that the Secretary of State has the authority to withhold funds from a registrar who does not timely perform specific duties related to voter registration. These duties include the approval, change, or cancellation of a voter's registration, scheduling hearings, determining challenges, and delivering notices.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a registrar rectifies their failure to perform these duties within 30 days of the funds being withheld, the Secretary of State is required to distribute the withheld funds. The changes aim to enhance accountability among voter registrars and ensure compliance with voter registration laws, thereby improving the overall electoral process in Texas. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.