The bill, H.B. No. 3774, amends various sections of the Election Code to enhance the operation of signature verification committees in Texas elections. Key changes include allowing election clerks to notify voters of defects in their carrier envelopes via telephone or email, and providing options for voters to correct these defects in person or by mail. The bill also establishes a more structured process for appointing signature verification committee members, ensuring equal representation from political parties, and requiring that the committee operates under specific timelines leading up to election day. Additionally, it mandates that committee members take an oath to uphold the integrity of the election process and be issued identification for their duties.

Significant insertions in the bill include the requirement for the secretary of state to prescribe forms for requests to establish signature verification committees and the stipulation that the committee must consist of an odd number of members, with a minimum of five. The bill also specifies that the committee must convene no later than the 12th day before election day and that a majority vote, with equal party representation, is necessary to determine the validity of signatures. Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for the handling of notes taken by committee members and expands the types of materials that can be sent to voters via email, including an official signature sheet. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to elections ordered after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 86.011, Election Code 87.0271, Election Code 87.0222, Election Code 87.027, Election Code 87.128, Election Code 101.105 (Election Code 101, Election Code 87, Election Code 86)