Texas HB493 amends the Election Code to establish ineligibility for serving as a poll watcher.

Texas HB493 amends the Election Code to establish specific ineligibility criteria for individuals serving as poll watchers. A person is ineligible if they have been finally convicted of a felony of the first or second degree or an offense related to election conduct. Additionally, poll watchers must not possess devices capable of recording images or sound and must disable or deactivate such devices while serving. The changes take effect September 1, 2025.

Texas HB493 amends the Election Code to establish ineligibility for serving as a poll watcher.

Texas HB493 amends the Election Code to establish specific ineligibility criteria for individuals serving as poll watchers. A person is ineligible if they have been finally convicted of a felony of the first or second degree or an offense related to election conduct. Additionally, poll watchers must not possess devices capable of recording images or sound and must disable or deactivate such devices while serving. The changes take effect September 1, 2025.