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Bill

SB 978

Relating to the repeal of the exception to the offense of unlawfully prohibiting an employee from voting.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Sarah Eckhardt

SB 978 eliminates an employer exception allowing workplace voting restrictions, strengthening employee voting protections across Texas employment.

Referred to State Affairs
#crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #elections--general(i0310)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 978

Legislative bill overview

SB 978 would repeal an existing exception in Texas law that currently allows employers to prohibit employees from voting under certain circumstances. The bill eliminates a loophole in voting protection statutes that has permitted employers to restrict voting rights in limited situations. This change would strengthen protections by removing a carve-out that has allowed employment-based voting restrictions.

Why is this important

Voting is a fundamental right, and employer interference with voting can suppress political participation, particularly among workers with limited job flexibility or security. Removing exceptions to voting protections ensures more consistent legal safeguards across all employment situations. This affects working Texans' ability to exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear of employment retaliation.

Potential points of contention

  • Ambiguity about current exception: The bill's language doesn't specify which existing exception is being repealed, making it unclear what specific employer restrictions are currently permitted and would be eliminated
  • Business operations concerns: Employers may argue that some operational exceptions (such as regarding critical infrastructure workers or election workers themselves) are necessary for business continuity
  • Implementation questions: Unclear whether repeal would affect all employment sectors equally or if certain industries require carve-outs for legitimate operational reasons

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

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