Texas Enacts Amendment Banning Noncitizen Voting

Texas has officially amended its constitution to prohibit noncitizens from voting. This significant change follows a successful ballot initiative that received nearly 72% approval from voters.

Details of the Amendment

The constitutional amendment, identified as SJR 37, specifically states that “persons who are not citizens of the United States” are barred from participating in elections throughout the state. This language will be added to Texas’s existing laws that govern voter eligibility.

Current Voting Regulations

Texas election laws already require individuals to be U.S. citizens to register to vote. Furthermore, federal regulations also prohibit noncitizens from voting in federal elections, including those for the presidency and Congress.

Governor’s Response

Texas Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the outcome, emphasizing on social media that “it is now in our Constitution that only U.S. citizens can vote in Texas elections.” His statement reflects the state’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its electoral processes.

Implications of the Amendment

• The amendment reinforces existing laws on voting eligibility in Texas.
• It highlights a continuing national dialogue regarding voter qualifications.
• The measure enhances voter confidence by clarifying the restrictions on voting rights.

This constitutional amendment represents a decisive step in Texas’s approach to voting regulations, ensuring that only U.S. citizens can cast ballots in future elections.