Texas lawmakers have approved a series of election reforms aimed at expanding weekend voting access, clarifying mail-in ballot procedures, and tightening curbside voting rules, in a package of changes set to take effect ahead of the 2028 presidential election.
Under the new law, early voting will span 12 consecutive days ending the day before Election Day. The updated schedule eliminates the previous three-day gap before Election Day and guarantees two full weekends of early voting. In addition, Sunday voting hours will be extended to nine hours, including on holidays.
“This is about making sure every Texan has a fair chance to cast a ballot,” said Sen. Andrea Martinez, D-Dallas, a supporter of the bill. “By providing more consistent access on weekends, we’re meeting voters where they are.”
Local election officials, however, have raised concerns about the increased workload. Many counties will need to adjust staffing and equipment allocations, though no additional state funding has been designated to support the changes.
The Legislature also approved reforms to mail-in voting. The new law requires clearer instructions on ballot envelopes and provides voters with opportunities to correct errors that might otherwise cause their ballots to be rejected. The reforms follow a federal court ruling that struck down Texas’s previous mail ballot ID requirements as discriminatory.
Curbside voting access has been narrowed. The updated law limits the service to voters who are physically unable to enter polling places, typically due to a disability. Election officials must continue to ensure that curbside voting is available and accessible to those who qualify.
Meanwhile, efforts to require proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration failed in the Legislature. The proposal drew criticism from voting rights advocates, who warned it would suppress registration among eligible voters who lack documentation or have changed names.
The voting reforms are expected to be implemented by August 2027, in time for the 2028 general election. While supporters say the changes will boost turnout, others warn the new requirements could create logistical challenges and delays in reporting early results.