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Bill

HB 2366

Relating to the applicability to election judges of a prohibition on the carrying of a concealed handgun at a polling place.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Jared Patterson

Texas bill would exempt election judges from prohibition on carrying concealed handguns at polling places, allowing armed election workers during voting.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#concealedhandguns(s0241) #elections--earlyvoting(i0260) #elections--electionofficers(i0305) #weapons(i0887)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2366

Legislative bill overview

HB 2366 would modify Texas law to allow election judges to carry concealed handguns at polling places, creating an exemption from the current prohibition on concealed carry in voting locations. The bill appears to carve out election judges from existing restrictions that apply to other individuals at polling sites.

Why is this important

This bill addresses security and self-defense concerns for election workers, who may work long hours in public spaces and could be vulnerable to confrontation or violence. However, it also touches on sensitive issues around firearms at polling places, election integrity perceptions, and voter confidence in the voting process.

Potential points of contention

  • Election security vs. voter intimidation concerns: Firearms at polling places could reassure some voters about worker safety but make others uncomfortable or feel intimidated during voting
  • Selective exemptions: Creating carve-outs for specific groups raises questions about why election judges receive different treatment than other poll workers or election officials
  • Implementation challenges: Defining "election judge," ensuring proper training, and establishing clear protocols for armed election officials would require additional regulation and oversight

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

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