H.B. No. 4274 introduces new legal provisions aimed at addressing the intimidation and harassment of election officials, as well as election interference in Texas. The bill establishes Chapter 280 in the Election Code, which defines key terms such as "election official," "family member," and "personal information." It outlines specific offenses related to the intimidation and harassment of election officials, including threats of bodily harm or property damage, and establishes penalties for such actions, categorizing them as felonies of varying degrees based on the severity and prior convictions of the offender. Additionally, the bill criminalizes the dissemination of personal information about election officials that poses a threat to their safety and obstructing their access to polling places or other official duties.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 552.117(a) of the Government Code to include current election officials among those whose personal information is protected from public disclosure. This amendment aims to enhance the safety and privacy of election officials by preventing the release of sensitive information that could lead to harassment or intimidation. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 552.117 (Government Code 552)