H.B. No. 4902 amends the Texas Election Code to enhance voter registration requirements by mandating proof of citizenship for applicants. Specifically, it adds a new subsection (a-1) to Section 13.002, which requires individuals to submit proof of citizenship alongside their voter registration application. Additionally, a new section, 13.0022, is introduced to ensure that applicants who register by mail or fax receive notice of the citizenship requirements and instructions on how to fulfill them. The bill also establishes provisions for the secretary of state to utilize publicly available real property information to verify voter addresses and identify any discrepancies.

Furthermore, the bill allows the secretary of state to contract with private entities to assist in maintaining the statewide voter registration list, including verifying voter information and identifying duplicate registrations. It also mandates that these contracts include security and confidentiality provisions for voter information. The bill requires the secretary of state to request changes to federal voter registration application requirements to include proof of citizenship and outlines the process for enforcement if the request is not met. The new regulations will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to applications submitted after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 13.002 (Election Code 13)