Voting rights groups cut voter help in Texas

Voting rights groups cut voter help

Texas voting rights groups reduced assistance for non-English speakers and disabled voters after state law criminalized voter help.

“Yo soy sus ojos”

SB1 law changes election rules

Texas passed SB1 in 2021, making it illegal to receive compensation for helping voters fill ballots.

Criminal penalties for violations

Violations of SB1 can lead to up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

LUPE's voter assistance

LUPE helps 30,000 people yearly, including disabled and elderly voters.

Voter assistance restrictions

LUPE workers now must ask voters to leave if they need ballot help.

Election law impact

The law affects non-English speakers, disabled voters, and elderly populations in Texas.

Rio Grande Valley context

The Rio Grande Valley has 1.4 million residents, 90% Hispanic, and 24% below poverty line.

Voter assistance alternatives

Groups now provide checklists instead of one-on-one help for voters.

Volunteer fears

Volunteers fear legal trouble if they assist voters without proper documentation.

State response

Texas Republicans passed SB1 in response to false claims about the 2020 election.

Voter anxiety

Elderly voters face increased anxiety due to complex ballot requirements.

Local impact

Maria Gomez provides rides to polls for neighbors in San Juan, Texas.

Voter assistance challenges

Voters with disabilities struggle to access mail ballots without assistance.

State law enforcement

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton investigated voting groups in Latino communities.

Voter assistance alternatives

Groups now host group sessions with projectors to show ballot instructions.

Voter assistance consequences

Voters with disabilities face barriers to voting due to new state law.