Fort Bend Co. Judge Addresses SB1 Concerns

Last week, Fort Bend County Judge KP George held a press conference where he addressed concerns over the passing of Senate Bill 1 and mail ballot application discrepancies. 

According to Click2Houston, the judge was joined by Fort Bend County Elections Administrator John Oldham, Rep. Ron Reynolds and several other county elected officials.

“As our country and county becomes more diverse, it is so important that everybody gets an opportunity to exercise their constitutional right,” George said.

Here are the changes and concerns he addressed.

• Who applies for a mail-in ballot?

You have to be 65 years or older, sick or disables, out of the country, an expectant mother or are being detained in jail. 

• How do I apply for a mail-in ballot?

Since the passing of SB 1 you must submit a request for an application. To fill out an application, you can call the election office or download an application at votetexas.gov.

• What do I need to fill out the mail-in ballot?

Applicants must list their Texas driver’s license number, Texas personal identification number, or election identification certificate number on the form. You can also use the last four digits of their social security number to be written in instead.

Since the passing of SB1, election officials reported at least 50% of ballot applications being rejected compared to the county’s average of 5%, as reported by Click2Houston.

George and Reynolds both expressed their concern over the new bill, calling it a “voter suppression bill”. Saying they would continue to advocate for the integrity of elections that ensure fundamental rights and protect freedom of speech.