1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Texas Senate Bill 16 (SB16), particularly the provisions that impose criminal penalties on election officials and volunteers who assist voters in good faith. While I understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of our electoral process, SB16 introduces measures that could inadvertently suppress voter participation and discourage civic engagement. Specifically, the criminalization of election officials who unknowingly allow individuals without proof of citizenship to vote is deeply concerning. This provision not only places undue pressure on those who dedicate their time to ensuring fair elections but also risks creating a climate of fear and hesitation among those tasked with facilitating voter registration. Historically, voter registration drives have played a crucial role in empowering marginalized communities and ensuring their voices are heard. By introducing felony charges for honest mistakes, SB16 could deter individuals and organizations from participating in these efforts, thereby undermining the very foundation of our democracy. I urge you to reconsider the punitive aspects of this bill and focus on measures that enhance voter education and accessibility without compromising the rights of eligible voters or penalizing those who work tirelessly to support our democratic process. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I hope you will take these concerns into account as you deliberate on SB16.