The bill, H.B. No. 1857, amends the Texas Election Code to change the start date for the early voting period. Specifically, it establishes that early voting by personal appearance will begin on the first business day after the last day a voter registration becomes effective under Section 13.143, rather than the 17th day before election day. This change aims to align the early voting period more closely with voter registration deadlines.

The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing for a transition period for the implementation of this new early voting schedule. The adjustments made in the bill are intended to enhance voter participation by providing a more accessible early voting timeline.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 85.001 (Election Code 85)