The bill, H.B. No. 5101, proposes significant changes to voter registration procedures in Texas, specifically mandating the cancellation of all voter registrations on November 30 following each presidential election. This new requirement is outlined in the newly added Section 16.040 of the Election Code, which states that such cancellations cannot be challenged or reinstated. Additionally, individuals whose registrations are canceled will need to reapply for voter registration under Chapter 13. The bill also amends various sections of the Election Code to align with this new cancellation process, including changes to the expiration of voter registration certificates and the procedures for notifying voters about their registration status.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a civil penalty for registrars who fail to perform their duties related to voter registration in a timely manner, with penalties of up to $5,000 for each failure. It also clarifies that the Secretary of State may withhold funds from registrars who do not comply with these requirements. The changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and the amendments apply only to voter registration certificates for which applications are received after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 13.142, Election Code 15.002, Election Code 15.005, Election Code 15.052, Election Code 15.081, Election Code 62.114, Election Code 15.022, Election Code 16.061 (Election Code 13, Election Code 16, Election Code 62, Election Code 15)