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Bill

HB 1885

Relating to providing voters access to a restroom facility at a polling place.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Suleman Lalani

Texas bill requiring polling places to provide voter restroom access, removing barriers for elderly and disabled voters during elections.

Referred to Elections
#elections--general(i0310)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1885

Legislative bill overview

HB 1885 requires polling places in Texas to provide voters with access to restroom facilities while they vote. The bill mandates that election officials ensure adequate restroom access during voting periods, addressing a practical barrier that can affect voter participation, particularly for elderly voters, people with disabilities, and those with medical conditions.

Why is this important

Long voting lines and lack of restroom access can discourage voter turnout and create particular hardship for vulnerable populations. This bill addresses a tangible accessibility issue that affects the actual exercise of the right to vote, potentially removing a barrier that prevents eligible voters from casting ballots.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Polling places vary widely in facilities; some may require significant infrastructure investment or facility agreements to meet restroom access requirements
  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill's specific requirements regarding what constitutes adequate access, distance from voting areas, and number of facilities needed remain unclear without seeing the full text
  • Practicality concerns: Some polling locations (schools, community centers) may have facility limitations, and questions exist about responsibility when venues cannot accommodate the requirement

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

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