What this is
HB 297 would allow people to vote using an old address if they moved within their county.
House Bill 297 addresses voting rights for Texans who have moved. The bill would allow voters whose residence address is no longer current to cast a ballot if they still live in the same county, even if they've moved to a different neighborhood or part of town.
Under the bill, a voter who has moved within the county could vote at their registered polling place if they complete and submit a statement to an election officer. This statement would include a declaration that they still meet the residence requirements and provide their current address information. This makes voting more accessible for people in transition.
The bill also changes how quickly voter registration updates take effect. Currently, registration changes become effective 30 days after a voter submits a change of address notice to the registrar. HB 297 modifies the timing rules for when these changes become official in the system.
Read full text
Sponsored by Representative Brooks Landgraf, the bill was introduced in the 2025 legislative session. If approved by a two-thirds vote in both chambers, it would take effect immediately. Otherwise, it would take effect 91 days after the legislative session ends. The changes would apply to address notices submitted after the bill becomes law.
Key details
- Bill number: HB 297
- Sponsor: Brooks Landgraf
- Registration change timing: 30 days after submission
- Status: Introduced
- Applies to moves within: Same county
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Why it matters
This is part of Our Voice — civic life, elections, and accountability.
How this affects households
Under $30,000
Makes voting easier if you move often due to housing costs or rental changes. You won't lose your vote just because you moved within the same county.
$30,000-$60,000
Helps if you move for work or better housing within your county. You can still vote at your old polling place while your address gets updated.
$60,000-$100,000
Provides some convenience if you move within the county, but you likely have more stable housing and move less often.
Over $100,000
Offers minor convenience since you probably have stable housing and rarely face barriers to updating voter registration.
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