The bill, H.B. No. 5386, proposes amendments to the Election Code of Texas to expand the eligibility for voting by mail to include pregnant individuals who will be in their second or third trimester on election day. Specifically, it modifies the heading of Section 82.002 to replace "CONFINEMENT FOR CHILDBIRTH" with "OTHER PHYSICAL CONDITION." Additionally, it revises the criteria for early voting by mail, allowing those who are expecting to give birth within four weeks before or after election day, as well as those who will be in the second or third trimester of pregnancy on election day, to qualify for mail-in voting.

The bill aims to ensure that pregnant individuals have the opportunity to participate in elections without the need to physically attend polling places, thereby addressing potential health concerns associated with voting in person during pregnancy. The proposed changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, if enacted.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 82.002 (Election Code 82)