TX HB5116

Filing an election contest no longer automatically suspends implementation of a voter-approved constitutional amendment; contestants must demonstrate substantial likelihood of success, irreparable harm, that harm outweighs state interests, and that enjoining implementation serves the public interest at a hearing within 30 days of filing

Trial courts must issue written rulings on pretrial motions within 30 days of filing and must ensure final judgment is entered no later than 180 days after the contested election date

Appellate courts must bring appeals to final disposition within 60 days after the trial court judgment becomes final, reduced from the previous 180-day timeline

Court judgments must direct the governor to declare the election valid or void within 10 days after the judgment becomes final, replacing the previous requirement to declare official results

Changes apply only to constitutional amendment election contests filed on or after September 1, 2025; earlier filings remain governed by prior law