The Legislative Budget Board (LBB) has determined that SB 985 will have no fiscal impact on the state government. The bill's provisions solely affect local election administration and do not require additional state funding or resources.

For local governments, specifically counties that opt to consolidate election precincts, there is a potential for cost savings. These savings would primarily come from reductions in expenditures related to election equipment, polling location setup, personnel, and supplies. By allowing precinct consolidation under certain conditions, counties could streamline their election operations, potentially lowering administrative burdens and financial commitments.

However, the actual fiscal impact will vary by county, depending on the extent to which they choose to consolidate precincts and the specific logistical needs of their election processes. While cost reductions are anticipated, there could be secondary costs associated with voter outreach and education to inform residents of changes in their polling locations.

SB 985 is a practical and fiscally responsible measure that streamlines election administration while maintaining essential voter protections. The bill allows counties to consolidate election precincts with fewer than 500 registered voters, helping local governments avoid unnecessary expenditures on election equipment, supplies, and personnel. Additionally, it extends this flexibility to counties with populations of at least 250,000, permitting precincts to be combined as long as they contain between 500 and 750 registered voters.

This legislation builds upon previous election reforms by correcting unintended consequences from past bills, ensuring that counties retain the ability to manage precincts efficiently without compromising election integrity. The bill also maintains safeguards against voter dilution under the federal Voting Rights Act, ensuring that precinct consolidation decisions do not negatively impact minority communities or alter political representation.

By reducing redundant election costs and allowing counties to optimize their polling place resources, SB 985 supports the principles of limited government and fiscal responsibility while ensuring that elections remain accessible and efficient. The measure does not impose new state mandates, leaving decision-making power in the hands of local election officials and county governments. Given these strong policy justifications, Texas Policy Research recommends a YES for SB 985.

• HB 342 (Same As)
• SB 1597 (Same As)