Jolt Action

Menu
Menu
Blog Posts - Banner - Website (14)

Tell Texas State Affairs Committee to STOP restrictive County Voting Bill

Protect voting rights in Texas!

SB 76 is a proposed bill that seeks to eliminate the Countywide Polling Place Program in Texas. This program allows voters to cast their ballot at any polling location in their county, providing flexibility and convenience that has proven especially beneficial for working families, communities of color, and voters in rural areas. Eliminating this program would force many voters to return to restrictive, precinct-based voting—a system that has historically resulted in longer wait times, confusion, and disenfranchisement.

For Texas’ progressive and Latino communities, this bill represents a direct threat to equitable access to the ballot box. Latinos, who often face systemic barriers to voting such as inaccessible polling places and language challenges, rely on the flexibility of countywide voting to overcome these obstacles. Progressives across Texas also champion accessible voting systems because they are essential for a thriving democracy that reflects diverse voices.

  • SB 76 is not just an administrative change — it endangers the participation and power of local communities in shaping Texas’ future. Fighting against this bill is fighting for democracy that serves everyone.
  • Flexible voting supports everyone: Countywide voting helps busy workers, parents, and rural communities by letting people vote where it’s most convenient for them. 
  • Ending countywide voting creates barriers: Switching back to precinct-only voting means longer lines, more confusion, and fewer people voting, especially in marginalized communities. 
  • We oppose SB 76 and request the State Affairs Committee eliminate this bill now.


WHAT CAN I DO?

  • Contact your representatives and voice your opposition: Call, email, or write letters to your state representatives and senators to express your concerns about the harmful impacts of ending countywide voting.
    • CONTACT (samples below) the State Affairs Committee, starting with:
      • Senator Judith Zaffirini: District 21
      • Senator Bryan Hughes: District 1
  • Share this information with your personal network to amplify the message.  
  • Stay engaged by following @JoltAction on social media.

 

Sample Email

Subject: Urgent Concern about SB 76  – Protect Countywide Voting 

Dear Senator [Last Name], 

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a concerned constituent in [City or District Name]. I am writing to voice my opposition to SB 76 and any measures threatening countywide voting, which has proven to be a vital tool for ensuring fair and accessible elections for all. 

Countywide voting empowers underrepresented communities and creates a more inclusive democracy while reducing voting barriers for working families, students, and individuals with disabilities. Restricting it would disproportionately harm these groups and undermine participation in our democratic process. 

I urge you to strongly oppose any legislation that would limit or abolish countywide voting. We deserve a democracy that uplifts and includes every voice, and your leadership is critical in making that a reality. 

Please stand with your constituents and protect the right to vote for all. Thank you for your time and consideration on this essential issue. 

Sincerely, 

[Your Full Name] 

[Your Address] 

[Your Phone Number] 


Phone or Voicemail Script

Hello, 

My name is [Your Name], and I am a constituent from [City or District Name]. I’m calling to ask Senator [Last Name] to oppose SB 76 and any efforts to restrict countywide voting. Countywide voting is crucial for ensuring equitable access to elections for all Texans, especially those from marginalized communities or with unique challenges such as long work hours or disabilities. 

Thank you for taking my call. I hope the Senator will consider this critical issue and stand with us. 

[Optional for Voicemail]: You can reach me at [Your Phone Number] if you’d like to discuss this further. Thank you! 

Inclusive voting builds democracy! Countywide voting ensures everyone, especially underrepresented groups, has a fair chance to vote and be part of our democracy. Let’s make sure this bill goes no further. Together, our voices have the power to create change and ensure that every citizen’s right to vote is safeguarded.