TX HB3491

Candidates, political party chairs, presiding judges, alternate presiding judges, and heads of specific-purpose political committees may submit written requests to county clerks or election authorities for explanations and documentation regarding apparent Election Code violations, result irregularities, documentation issues, or ballot reconciliation discrepancies

County clerks must respond to initial requests within 20 days; if the requestor remains unsatisfied, they may submit a follow-up request requiring a response within 10 days

Requestors unsatisfied after both local responses may petition the Secretary of State for an audit; the Secretary has 30 days to determine if explanations are sufficient, and if not, must begin an audit at the county's expense

If the Secretary of State finds an Election Code violation following an audit, they may appoint a conservator to oversee elections in that county for two federal election cycles, with the county bearing all associated costs including salary and benefits

Election authorities that fail to remedy violations within 30 days of notice face a $500 civil penalty per violation, with additional $500 daily penalties for continued non-compliance; the Secretary of State must publish a record of penalized authorities online, and the Attorney General may pursue legal action to collect unpaid penalties