The bill amends the Government Code by adding a new Subchapter D, which establishes the attorney general's duty to prosecute criminal offenses related to election laws in Texas. It specifies that law enforcement agencies must report to both local prosecuting attorneys and the attorney general when there is probable cause to believe a criminal offense has occurred. The attorney general is granted jurisdiction to prosecute these offenses if six months have passed without action from the local prosecuting attorney after the report is submitted.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions in the Election Code, mandating that the attorney general shall prosecute election law offenses as outlined in the new subchapter, replacing the previous language that allowed for discretion. It also clarifies that the attorney general may direct local prosecutors to assist in these prosecutions. The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 273.021, Election Code 273.022 (Election Code 273)