H.B. No. 4989, titled the Ballot Box Election Security, Transparency, and Accountability Act, aims to enhance election integrity and security in Texas by implementing stricter regulations regarding the observation and handling of election materials. The bill amends Chapter 33 of the Texas Election Code to allow appointed watchers at polling places to observe various election activities, including the opening and closing of polling places, the operation of voting equipment, and the inspection and transfer of ballot boxes and data storage devices. Additionally, it mandates that watchers be allowed to follow the transfer and delivery of election materials to designated locations, ensuring transparency throughout the process.

The bill also introduces new requirements for video surveillance of areas containing voted ballots in counties with populations of 100,000 or more, ensuring that these areas are monitored from the time ballots are delivered until the final canvass of election returns. Furthermore, it establishes penalties for violations of these provisions, classifying offenses as Class A misdemeanors for first-time violations and felonies for subsequent offenses. The legislation emphasizes the presence of candidates and their representatives during the retrieval and counting of ballots, reinforcing accountability in the electoral process. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: of the Election Code 127.1232 (of the Election Code 127)