AUSTIN - A bill awaiting Gov. Greg Abbott’s signature aims to increase transparency in elections by making sure the Department of Public safety shares driver’s license info with the secretary of state.
Sponsored by Sen. Bryan Hughes, Senate Bill 1470 relates to requiring the DPS to share data for the purpose of maintaining the statewide voter registration list.
If enacted, SB 1470 will amend the Election Code to require the secretary of state to use data of registered voters who apply for a driver's license or personal identification card in another state to identify voters whose addresses have changed, who are not qualified to vote based on felony conviction, or who are registered to vote in more than one state.
By maintaining a statewide voter registration list, the bill seeks to prevent duplication of registration in more than one state or jurisdiction.
Kolean
“SB 1470 is a smart, commonsense step toward safeguarding the integrity of our elections,” said Charlie Kolean, president of Strategic Political Management, a government affairs and lobbying firm.
“By ensuring our voter rolls are accurate and up-to-date, Texas is setting a national example for election transparency and accountability. I applaud Senator Bryan Hughes, Chairman Matt Shaheen, and all the legislative leaders who championed this bill. Their leadership strengthens trust in our democratic process and shows Texas is serious about secure and fair elections.”
SB 1470 is part of a broader effort by Texas lawmakers to strengthen election security and ensure the accuracy of voter rolls.
According to SmartAsset, Texas experienced significant population movement in 2024, with approximately 615,000 people relocating from other states while roughly 441,000 residents moved out – resulting in a net domestic migration gain of roughly 174,000 people.
Additionally, Texas saw a net international migration gain of 319,569 people, contributing to a total population increase of nearly 563,000 residents between 2023 and 2024.
The bill authorizes the secretary of state, in consultation with DPS, to adopt rules and establish procedures for the administration of the bill's provisions.
SB 1470 was sent to the governor on May 27.
