Some lawmakers say returning election management to elected officials will restore accountability and transparency in Harris County.
Twenty-one Harris County legal election contests remain pending in Texas courts, but a timeline for trials has yet to be determined.
A judge has rejected Judge DaSean Jones’ claim that the election contest infringed on his rights to freedom of speech and association.
Bettencourt called the bill “common-sense transparency legislation” that will bolster public trust in the administration of elections.
An attorney representing Judge DaSean Jones said the legal election contests infringe on his client's rights to freedoms of association and speech.
Harris County has sought to block the release of the election administrator’s communications as well as other records related to the 2022 general election.
An appointed judge is considering lawsuits for new elections, while a new report alleges officials did not initially provide enough ballots.
Williamson County says Paxton exceeded his authority and contradicted state law in allowing public inspection of ballots and other election records.
Harris County drew national attention and a criminal investigation into elections marred by delays, ballot shortages, and conflicting court orders.
More than a dozen GOP candidates are contesting the 2022 election and accusing the county of suppressing the rights of voters.
The complaints were filed with the Texas Ethics Commission and forwarded to County Attorney Delia Garza.
The report points to usual problems with running elections but also blames the Houston Astros' World Series championship parade for causing delays.
