Bill

HB 985

83(R) - 2013
Elections

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive

Author(s)

Gary Elkins

Bill Caption

Relating to the deadlines by which provisional ballots must be processed and the state canvass must be conducted for certain elections.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Summary: The Texas Elections Code sets time limits on counting and canvassing of provisional and early voting ballots. In larger counties, election officials can have difficulty meeting these deadlines with the increase of these types of ballots. HB 985 would extend the time limits: from 7 to 13 days for the early voting ballot board to verify and count ballots, from 8 to 14 days for canvassing ballots, and from 3 to 7 days to verify provisional ballots after the election.

Analysis: Because of the extensive process used to certify and count ballots it is important for these officials to have sufficient time to reach an accurate number. HB 985 would strengthen the integrity of each vote by ensuring that every vote that should count does and that officials are able to catch any cases of voter fraud. TPPA supports HB 985.