Policy Foundations
-
Expanding Access to Vote-by-Mail
Expanding access to vote-by-mail to no excuse in Texas would provide greater flexibility and convenience for voters, especially those with disabilities or who cannot physically make it to the polls. It would also potentially increase voter turnout and reduce the spread of contagious diseases during elections.
-
Extending the Vote-by-Mail Application Deadline
Extending the vote-by-mail application deadline in Texas would give voters more time to request a mail-in ballot and increase access to the voting process, especially for those who may have unexpected circumstances or delays.
-
Expanding Curbside Voting
Expanding curbside voting in Texas by providing more machines and availability would help reduce wait times and increase access to the voting process for voters with disabilities, seniors, and those with limited mobility. This would ensure that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process without physical barriers.
-
Implementing Drive-Thru Voting
Implementing drive-thru voting in Texas would provide a safe, convenient, and efficient option for voters to cast their ballot while adhering to social distancing guidelines. It would reduce the risk of spreading contagious diseases during elections and increase access to the voting process, especially for those with mobility issues.
-
Online Voter Registration System
Implementing an online voter registration system in Texas would increase accessibility and streamline the registration process for eligible voters. It would reduce errors and save time and resources for both voters and election officials. Additionally, it would provide a secure and convenient way to register to vote from anywhere, anytime.
-
Online Vote-by-Mail Application System
Implementing an online vote-by-mail application system in Texas would simplify the process and increase accessibility for voters to request a mail-in ballot. It would also reduce errors and save time and resources for both voters and election officials, making it easier for eligible voters to participate in the democratic process.
-
Automatic Voter Registration at Age 18
Implementing automatic voter registration at age 18 in Texas would increase voter participation by ensuring that eligible voters are automatically registered to vote when they turn 18. It would reduce barriers to registration and increase the accuracy of voter rolls, making it easier for young adults to participate in the democratic process.
-
Same Day Voter Registration Implementation
Implementing same-day voter registration in Texas would increase voter turnout by allowing eligible voters to register and vote on the same day. It would reduce barriers to registration and make it easier for eligible voters who may have missed the registration deadline to participate in the democratic process, ensuring that every eligible vote is counted.
-
Nonpartisan Groups' Access to Polling Locations
Allowing nonpartisan groups access to polling locations in Texas would help protect people's rights from voter suppression and intimidation. These groups could monitor and report any instances of voter suppression or intimidation, ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process without fear or intimidation.
-
Detailed Explanation for Denied Voter Registration Applications
Implementing a detailed explanation for denied voter registration applications in Texas would increase transparency and accountability in the registration process. It would ensure that eligible voters are not denied the right to vote due to administrative errors or misunderstandings. Additionally, it would help voters understand the reason for their application denial and how to correct it.
-
Automatic Notification of Denial of Voter Registration for Those Not "Off-Paper"
By sending out annual notices individuals who are not considered “off paper” by the state of Texas and informing them that they are not eligible to register to vote or vote, that would potentially prevent people from attempting to vote in elections when they are ineligible to do so.
-
Deployment of Paper Ballot Drop Boxes
Implementing the deployment of paper ballot drop boxes in Texas would increase access to the voting process by providing a secure and convenient option for voters to submit their mail-in ballots. It would also reduce delays and potential errors associated with mailing ballots and provide an additional layer of protection against voter suppression and fraud.
-
Voter Registration Application Drop Boxes Deployment
Deploying voter registration application drop boxes in Texas would increase accessibility to the voter registration process and provide an alternative for voters who may face difficulty in registering through traditional methods.
-
Deployment of Mobile Voting Machines
Implementing the deployment of mobile voting machines in Texas would increase access to the voting process by providing a convenient and efficient option for voters to cast their ballot, especially in rural or remote areas.
-
Reasonable Poll Worker to Voter Ratio Implementation
Implementing a reasonable poll worker to voter ratio in Texas would improve the efficiency and accuracy of the voting process. It would reduce wait times and ensure that every voter has the opportunity to cast their ballot in a timely manner. Additionally, it would reduce the potential for errors and increase voter confidence in the election results.
-
Reasonable Voter to Machine Ratio Implementation
Implementing a reasonable voter to machine ratio in Texas would improve the efficiency and accuracy of the voting process. It would reduce wait times and ensure that every voter has the opportunity to cast their ballot in a timely manner. Additionally, it would reduce the potential for errors and increase voter confidence in the election results.
-
Reasonable Poll Worker to Polling Location Ratio Implementation
Implementing a reasonable poll worker to polling location ratio in Texas would improve the efficiency and accuracy of the voting process. It would ensure that every polling location has sufficient staff to assist voters and handle any issues that arise. Additionally, it would reduce wait times and improve the overall voter experience, increasing voter confidence in the election results.
-
Working Group to Study Election Rates and Make Recommendations
Establishing a working group to study election rates and make recommendations in Texas would help identify areas for improvement in the voting process. It would provide valuable insights into factors that affect voter turnout and help develop evidence-based policies to increase participation. Additionally, it would ensure that election policies are based on accurate data and reflect the needs of the community.
-
Production of Nonpartisan Election Guides by Counties
The production of nonpartisan election guides by counties in Texas would improve voter education and participation. It would provide voters with unbiased information about the candidates and issues on the ballot, increasing their understanding and confidence in the voting process. Additionally, it would reduce the influence of partisan interests on the election, ensuring that voters can make informed decisions based on the issues that matter to them.
-
Provision of Unique Sample Ballots Online and at County Election Offices
The provision of unique sample ballots online and at county election offices in Texas would improve voter education and participation. It would allow voters to familiarize themselves with the ballot before election day, reducing the time required to complete the ballot and the potential for errors. Additionally, it would increase transparency and ensure that voters can make informed decisions based on their unique ballot.
-
Provision of Paper Receipts for Voters' Ballots
The provision of paper receipts for voters' ballots in Texas would increase transparency and ensure the accuracy of the voting process. It would provide voters with a physical record of their vote, allowing them to verify that their ballot was recorded correctly. Additionally, it would provide a means to audit the election results, increasing voter confidence in the integrity of the process.
-
Allowing Jail Voting for Eligible Voters
Allowing eligible voters in Texas who are incarcerated to vote would ensure that their constitutional right to vote is not infringed upon, and would provide them with a voice in the democratic process. It would also help reduce disparities in voting rights and increase voter participation among historically marginalized communities, which is critical for a healthy democracy.
-
Allowing Hospital Voting for Eligible Voters
Allowing hospital voting for eligible voters in Texas would benefit those who are unable to leave their hospital rooms due to medical conditions, providing them with the opportunity to cast their vote without having to travel to a polling location, ensuring their right to vote is protected.
-
Expanding Limited Ballot Access for Out-of-County Voters
Expanding limited ballot access in Texas for out-of-county voters would allow them to cast a ballot that includes all races and propositions for which they are eligible to vote, even if they are outside of their home county on Election Day. This helps ensure that all eligible voters have access to the democratic process and can have their voices heard.
-
Increasing Signage Accessibility for Voters with Disabilities
Increasing signage accessibility and visibility for voters with disabilities can benefit Texas by ensuring that these voters have clear, easy-to-read instructions and information about polling locations, making it easier for them to navigate the voting process independently and exercise their right to vote. It can also help to promote greater inclusivity and accessibility for people with disabilities across the state.
-
Expanding Voter ID Requirements to Include Tribal and Student IDs
Expanding voter ID requirements to include tribal and student IDs can help increase voter turnout among Native American and student populations, who may face challenges obtaining other forms of identification.
-
Mailing Voter Registration Applications to Eligible but Unregistered Voters
Mailing voter registration applications to eligible but unregistered voters can help increase voter participation and reduce barriers to voter registration, particularly for those who may not have easy access to registration materials or who may not be aware of the registration process.
-
Emergency Ballot Preparation Plan Implementation
By having election official prepare a certain number of emergency ballots in advance of the election, in case they are needed, the time it takes to create and distribute emergency ballots on Election Day would be reduced.
-
Streamlining the Process for Emergency Ballot Requests
The process for requesting an emergency ballot needs to be simplified, and by allowing voters to make the request online or by phone, it would reduce the time and effort required to obtain an emergency ballot.
-
Poll Watcher Identification and Verification
Mandating poll watcher identification and verification as registered voters in Texas would ensure that only authorized individuals are present at the polling location, ballot board, or central count. It would provide an additional layer of security to the voting process and reduce the potential for voter intimidation and fraud. Additionally, it would ensure that poll watchers are properly trained and understand their role in the election.
-
Poll Watcher Tracking
Tracking the number and locations of poll watchers in Texas, as well as which appointing authority appointed them to which location, would increase transparency and accountability during the election. It would provide a means to monitor the activities of poll watchers, ensuring that they are properly appointed and not interfering with the voting process. Additionally, it would provide a record of their activities that can be used to investigate any irregularities that may occur during the election.
-
Increase Poll Worker Pay
Increasing poll worker pay in Texas would incentivize more people to work at polling locations, ensuring that there are enough workers to efficiently run the election. It would reduce the likelihood of understaffing and long wait times for voters. Additionally, it would attract a more diverse pool of workers, ensuring that polling locations are staffed by individuals who are representative of the community they serve.
-
Create Statewide Election Security Fund
Creating a statewide election security fund in Texas, funded by the state government, would provide financial assistance to counties to upgrade their voting systems and enhance their cybersecurity measures. This would increase the security of the election infrastructure, making it more difficult for malicious actors to interfere with the election. Additionally, it would ensure that all counties have the resources necessary to secure their voting systems, regardless of their size or budget constraints.
-
Expanded Early Voting Hours
Expanding early voting hours in Texas to include 24-hour voting would provide voters with more flexible options to cast their ballots, especially those who work long hours or have other obligations during traditional voting hours. This would help reduce lines and congestion at polling locations, and increase accessibility and convenience, which would lead to higher voter turnout and more robust democratic participation.
-
Strengthening Criminal Penalties for Intentional Election Equipment Tampering
Strengthening criminal penalties for intentional election equipment tampering in Texas would deter individuals from attempting to interfere with the election process, promoting confidence in the integrity of the voting system. It would also provide a clear message that such tampering will not be tolerated and will be met with serious consequences.
-
Improving the Unopposed Candidates Section of the Ballot
Improving the Unopposed Candidates Section of the Ballot in Texas will benefit voters by ensuring that they are not confused and are able to move forward through the ballot without issues.
-
Enhancing Protections for Poll Workers
Enhancing protections for poll workers in Texas can help ensure that these individuals are not subject to harassment, intimidation, or violence, which can deter them from working at polling locations. This can help promote greater participation in the electoral process by ensuring that polling places are adequately staffed and can operate smoothly, efficiently, and without undue interference or disruption.
-
Enhancing Training for Poll Workers
Enhancing training for poll workers in Texas would improve their ability to effectively manage the voting process, address challenges that arise, and provide better assistance to voters.
-
Closing Schools on Election Day if Used as Polling Locations
Closing schools on election day if used as polling locations can benefit Texas by increasing voter access to polling locations, reducing potential disruptions in schools, and ensuring the safety of students and staff during the election process. It can also allow for more efficient use of the polling location and reduce confusion for voters.
-
Early Polling Location Access for Poll Workers for Set-Up Purposes
Early polling location access for poll workers allows for efficient setup and preparation of polling stations, leading to smooth and timely voting operations. This ensures that polling locations are ready for voters when early voting begins, reducing wait times and increasing voter satisfaction.