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Bill

HB 4228

Relating to prohibiting an officer or employee of a political subdivision of this state from distributing certain voter registration application forms.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mark Dorazio

Texas bill prohibits local government employees from distributing voter registration forms, shifting registration promotion solely to state agencies and private organizations.

Referred to Elections
#elections--general(i0310) #elections--registration&suffrage(i0265) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · HB 4228

Legislative bill overview

HB 4228 prohibits officers and employees of Texas political subdivisions (cities, counties, school districts, etc.) from distributing voter registration application forms to the public. The bill restricts government employees from actively promoting voter registration through their official roles and positions.

Why is this important

Voter registration access directly affects participation rates, particularly among populations with less independent access to registration information. This bill would shift voter registration responsibility entirely to state agencies and private organizations, potentially creating barriers for some eligible citizens who previously encountered registration materials through routine government interactions (library visits, permit offices, etc.).

Potential points of contention

  • Access equity: Critics argue this disproportionately affects underrepresented populations, elderly citizens, and those with limited internet access who relied on government employee assistance for registration
  • Administrative efficiency: Supporters contend that voter registration is a state function and shouldn't burden local government employees, while opponents note local offices traditionally served as accessible distribution points
  • Voter suppression concerns: Democrats/voting rights advocates likely view this as voter suppression, while Republicans/sponsors may frame it as preventing government overreach in voter recruitment

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

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