Texas Political Spotlight

House Committee Weighs Voter Citizenship Verification Proposal

Democratic lawmakers raised concerns Thursday during a House Elections Committee hearing over HB 5337, a proposal that would require all Texas voters to submit proof of citizenship. The bill would allow voters six days after an election to provide the necessary documentation for their full ballot to be counted. It would also penalize local election officials for failing to verify voter citizenship status. HB 5337 mirrors SB 16, which has already passed the Senate along party lines.

Election officials from the Secretary of State’s office estimated that about 500,000 voters (those lacking a driver’s license or Social Security number on file) could be affected by the change. After nearly four hours of public testimony, the bill was left pending in committee, with further amendments under consideration.

»»» View footage from the 4 hours of testimony here

Lotto.com Fights Proposed Ban on Couriers

Lotto.com, the second-largest lottery retailer in Texas behind Jackpocket, has filed a lawsuit against the Texas Lottery Commission in an effort to block the agency from banning courier services. The suit, filed on Thursday, argues that the commission’s proposed ban marks a reversal of its prior stance. The company claims the agency previously told lawmakers it lacked the authority to regulate couriers and is now violating rule-change notice requirements. The lawsuit also alleges that the commission confiscated dozens of courier-owned lottery terminals without proper notice. Lawmakers have expressed growing concerns about potential money laundering and sales to minors through courier operations, leading to increased scrutiny. The commission, now led by acting director Sergio Rey after the resignation of Ryan Mindell, plans to vote on the proposed ban April 29 unless a court intervenes. Meanwhile, SB 28, which would criminalize courier operations, awaits consideration in the Texas House.

No Fines for Brown Grass Under Texas Bill

The Texas House on Thursday passed HB 517, legislation that would prevent homeowners' associations from fining residents for brown lawns during periods of drought-related water restrictions. Filed by Rep. Caroline Harris Davila, the bill aims to protect homeowners who face conflicting demands between conserving water and maintaining green lawns. Lawmakers adopted amendments to give residents 60 days to restore their lawns after restrictions are lifted and to prohibit HOAs from requiring new grass installation during droughts. Supporters argue the measure provides reasonable protections given Texas' frequent drought conditions, while some critics have questioned whether it addresses a widespread problem.

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