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SB 509

Relating to requiring notice to the attorney general in an action under the Election Code seeking a temporary restraining order.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt and 6 co-sponsors

Texas law now requires parties filing emergency court orders challenging election procedures to notify the Attorney General, giving the state's top legal officer formal notice of all election-related TRO lawsuits.

Effective on 9/1/25
#attorneygeneral(v2811) #courts--general(i0160) #email&electroniccommunications(s0321) #elections--general(i0310) #teleconferencing(s0039) #videoconferencing(s0216)
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Bill Summary · SB 509

Legislative bill overview

SB 509 requires that whenever someone files for a temporary restraining order (TRO) in court under Texas Election Code provisions, they must notify the Texas Attorney General of the legal action. The bill became effective September 1, 2025, and applies to emergency court orders seeking to halt election-related activities or procedures.

Why is this important

This creates a formal notice requirement that gives the state's chief legal officer visibility into litigation challenging election administration. In practice, this means the Attorney General's office can monitor, track, and potentially intervene in election-related lawsuits at their earliest and most time-sensitive stage (TRO proceedings), when quick court orders are sought before full trials occur.

Potential points of contention

  • Intervention concerns: Critics argue mandatory AG notice could enable the Attorney General to intervene strategically in election disputes, potentially limiting the independence of local election officials and courts in resolving urgent voting access issues
  • Timing and fairness: Requiring notice to a state official in emergency proceedings could delay justice for plaintiffs seeking immediate relief, especially if the AG chooses to participate in TRO hearings
  • Scope of authority: Unclear whether notice triggers a right to participate or is merely informational, creating ambiguity about the AG's actual power in these proceedings

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

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