Texas SB985 allows certain counties to combine election precincts to avoid unreasonable election costs and ensure adequate polling place locations.

Texas SB985 amends the Election Code to allow county commissioners courts to combine election precincts in counties with populations under 1.2 million, excluding those using countywide polling places. This applies if redistricting results in precincts with fewer than 500 voters or if combining results in precincts with 500 to 750 voters. Combined precincts must not exceed 10,000 voters and cannot dilute voting strength or discourage participation by groups protected by the Voting Rights Act. The changes take effect September 1, 2025.

Texas SB985 allows certain counties to combine election precincts to avoid unreasonable election costs and ensure adequate polling place locations.

Texas SB985 amends the Election Code to allow county commissioners courts to combine election precincts in counties with populations under 1.2 million, excluding those using countywide polling places. This applies if redistricting results in precincts with fewer than 500 voters or if combining results in precincts with 500 to 750 voters. Combined precincts must not exceed 10,000 voters and cannot dilute voting strength or discourage participation by groups protected by the Voting Rights Act. The changes take effect September 1, 2025.