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Bill

HJR 161

Proposing a constitutional amendment adding individuals who are not United States citizens to the classes of persons not allowed to vote in this state.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Daniel Alders and 39 co-sponsors

Proposes Texas constitutional amendment explicitly prohibiting non-U.S. citizens from voting, codifying existing statutory restrictions at constitutional level.

Laid on the table subject to call
#aliens(i0032) #elections--registration&suffrage(i0265) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJR 161

Legislative bill overview

HJR 161 proposes a constitutional amendment to Texas's state constitution that would explicitly prohibit non-U.S. citizens from voting in state elections. Currently, Texas law already effectively bars non-citizens from voting, but this amendment would enshrine the restriction directly in the state constitution rather than relying on statutory law.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments are more difficult to change than regular laws, making this a permanent structural barrier. This proposal reflects ongoing national debate over voting eligibility and citizenship requirements, with implications for how states define electoral participation and voter access.

Potential points of contention

  • Redundancy vs. permanence: Critics argue the restriction already exists in law and this is unnecessary; supporters counter that constitutional language provides stronger legal protection against future challenges or legislative changes
  • Messaging and intent: Proponents frame this as clarifying citizenship requirements; opponents may view it as symbolic messaging on immigration rather than addressing an actual enforcement problem, since non-citizen voting is already prohibited
  • Amendment process burden: Questions about whether constitutional amendments should address issues already covered by statute, versus reserving constitutional changes for fundamental governance questions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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