H.B. No. 2803 amends the Election Code to require that if a presiding judge removes a watcher from a polling place, they must provide a signed statement to the watcher at the time of removal, detailing the reason for the removal. This new requirement is outlined in the added Subsection (i) of Section 32.075. Additionally, Subsection (j) mandates that the secretary of state will create a specific form for this signed statement.

The bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the election process by ensuring that watchers, who are individuals authorized to observe the election process, are informed of the reasons for their removal. The provisions of this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 32.075 (Election Code 32)
House Committee Report: Election Code 32.075 (Election Code 32)
Engrossed: Election Code 32.075 (Election Code 32)