Today, the Texas Public Policy Foundation applauded the final passage of an election reform bill that will expand voting access, create protections that safeguard legally cast votes, and ensure that every election result is legitimate. The House and the Senate both voted to concur on S.B. 1, which will now be sent to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk for final approval. Passage of this important legislation comes two months after opponents of the bill engaged in embarrassing and ultimately pointless delay tactics. S.B.1 is expected to be swiftly signed by the Governor.
“We congratulate the Texas Legislature for passing these reforms that protect voters and the integrity of our election system,” said Chad Ennis, senior fellow for TPPF’s Election Protection Project. “The bill not only includes many measures to secure the sanctity of the ballot box, such as voter ID for mail-in ballots, but also includes other measures to make voting easier, such as expanded early voting hours. This was a long but worthwhile effort for lawmakers. TPPF thanks Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dade Phelan, Sen. Bryan Hughes, Rep. Briscoe Cain, and Rep. Andrew Murr for making election integrity a top priority. All Texans should appreciate their hard work and perseverance in getting the bill passed.”