Introduction to the Issue
Texas is considering a significant change in its election schedule. Currently, municipal elections are held on the first Saturday in May, but a new bill proposes to move these elections to November, to be held on Tuesdays. This change aims to increase voter turnout and reduce costs.
The Problem with Low Turnout
Municipal elections typically have very low voter turnout. For example, in Dallas County, 44% of registered voters participated in the November 2022 election, but only 9% voted in the May election the following year. This low turnout is a concern because local elections can have a significant impact on communities.
The Proposed Solution
Senate Bill 1209, authored by Sen. Bryan Hughes, proposes to move most elections to November and have them on Tuesdays. This change would apply to city and school district elections, which are currently held in May. The goal is to increase voter turnout and reduce the costs associated with holding multiple elections.
Potential Benefits
The proposed change could have several benefits. For one, it could save money by allowing counties, cities, and schools to split the costs of holding elections. In smaller counties, this could make a significant difference. For example, the cost of holding an election in Houston County could be reduced from $15,000 to a few thousand dollars if the costs are shared.
Concerns and Drawbacks
However, there are also concerns about the proposed change. Some worry that moving all elections to November could create lengthy ballots, leading to longer waiting times for voters. Others are concerned that it could increase the number of December runoffs, which typically have very low turnout. Additionally, some school districts are concerned that the change could complicate their ability to pass bonds and start construction projects on time.
Impact on Small Counties
Small counties, which often have limited staff and resources, may struggle to carry out multiple elections at once. The proposed change could help alleviate some of these burdens. However, it could also create new challenges, such as figuring out where voters should cast their ballots if a school district spans multiple counties.
Opposition to the Bill
Some groups, including the Fast Growth Schools Coalition and Common Cause Texas, oppose the bill. They argue that it could disenfranchise people who are unable to vote on Tuesdays and could make it more difficult for school board candidates and bond supporters to get their messages out.
Potential for Increased Turnout
On the other hand, some argue that the proposed change could actually increase voter turnout. With more items on the ballot, there may be more opportunities for voters to engage with local issues and candidates. This could lead to more coverage of local elections and increased participation.
Conclusion
The proposal to move Texas municipal elections from May to November is a complex issue with both potential benefits and drawbacks. While it could save money and increase voter turnout, it also raises concerns about disenfranchisement and logistical challenges. As the bill makes its way through the legislature, it will be important to consider the potential impact on communities across the state and to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Ultimately, the goal should be to create an election system that is fair, accessible, and engaging for all voters.
