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Bill

HB 5116

Relating to requirements and procedures in the contest of an election on a proposed constitutional amendment.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Matt Shaheen

HB 5116 establishes procedures and requirements for legally contesting Texas constitutional amendment election results through the courts.

Committee report sent to Calendars
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Bill Summary · HB 5116

Legislative bill overview

HB 5116 establishes new requirements and procedures for contesting elections involving proposed constitutional amendments in Texas. The bill specifies how challenges to these elections must be filed, what evidence is required, and how disputes are resolved through the courts.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendment elections are fundamental to how states modify their governing documents, and clear procedures for contesting results affect the legitimacy and finality of these outcomes. This bill directly impacts citizens' ability to challenge amendment election results and determines the timeline and burden of proof required to overturn election outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Burden of proof standards: The bill may establish evidentiary thresholds that either make it too easy or too difficult to contest amendment elections, depending on how stringent requirements are set
  • Timeline constraints: Strict filing deadlines and procedural timelines could either protect election finality or prevent legitimate challenges from being heard
  • Standing and evidence requirements: Specifications about who can contest elections and what evidence qualifies may benefit certain political interests over others, or conversely, may be seen as either too permissive or restrictive

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

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