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Bill

HB 2139

Relating to voting by a voter unable to enter a polling place.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Lauren Simmons

HB 2139 enables Texas voters unable to physically enter polling places to vote through alternative procedures like curbside voting, expanding ballot access for disabled and mobility-limited citizens.

Left pending in committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2139

Legislative bill overview

HB 2139 addresses voting procedures for individuals who are unable to physically enter a polling place due to disabilities, illness, or other constraints. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Lauren Simmons, establishes or modifies protocols to enable these voters to cast ballots without entering the polling location itself—likely through curbside voting or similar accommodation mechanisms.

Why is this important

Accessibility to voting is a foundational democratic principle, and current procedures may effectively disenfranchise voters with mobility limitations, severe health conditions, or other disabilities. This bill directly impacts whether all eligible Texans can participate in elections equally, addressing both the spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act and practical voting equity.

Potential points of contention

  • Election security vs. accessibility balance: Opponents may argue that accommodations outside standard polling procedures could create vulnerabilities in ballot security, chain of custody, or voter verification processes
  • Implementation costs and logistics: Poll workers and election officials may face resource constraints in establishing reliable curbside or alternative voting systems across diverse precinct sizes and locations
  • Definition scope: Disagreement may exist over which conditions qualify someone as "unable to enter," and whether the criteria are too broad, too narrow, or create administrative burden in verification

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

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