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Bill

HB 1858

Relating to the days and hours during which the polls are open for early voting by personal appearance.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Sheryl Cole

HB 1858 modifies Texas early voting hours/days, affecting voter access and election administration costs during personal appearance early voting periods.

Referred to Elections
#elections--administration(i0277) #elections--earlyvoting(i0260)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1858

Legislative bill overview

HB 1858 would modify the schedule for early voting by personal appearance in Texas elections. The bill adjusts when polling locations must be open during the early voting period, potentially expanding or restricting voter access depending on the specific hours and days established in the final language.

Why is this important

Early voting access directly affects voter participation, particularly for working people, elderly voters, and those with transportation constraints. Changes to early voting windows can significantly impact turnout and determine which populations find voting more or less convenient.

Potential points of contention

  • Voter access equity: Expanding hours could help working voters and those with inflexible schedules; restricting hours could disproportionately burden certain demographics
  • Election administration burden: More extensive hours increase costs and staffing demands for election officials, while reduced hours may strain existing infrastructure
  • Partisan implications: Early voting schedule changes often trigger debate about whether they advantage or disadvantage particular parties or voter groups

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

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