The bill, H.B. No. 2074, proposes amendments to the Election Code to allow individuals who will turn 18 on the date of the general election for state and county officers to vote in the preceding primary elections. Specifically, it introduces new provisions in Section 13.001, allowing these individuals to register as voters for the purpose of participating in primary elections, provided they meet all other eligibility requirements except for age. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Secretary of State will establish necessary procedures to implement this change and allows voter registrars to notify these young voters about their limited eligibility.

Furthermore, the bill adds Section 172.005 to the Election Code, which explicitly states that a person under 18 may vote in a primary election if they will be 18 by the next general election and meet all other qualifications. This section also requires the Secretary of State to consult with political party chairpersons to develop implementation procedures. The bill will take effect only if a related constitutional amendment is approved by voters in the 2025 election; otherwise, it will have no effect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 13.001 (Election Code 13)