LWV Texas Joins Voting Rights Groups as Intervenors to Expand Vote by Mail Options

In light of COVID-19, voters need flexibility to safely cast their ballots

AUSTIN – Thursday, the League of Women Voters of Texas and the League of Women Voters of Austin Area requested to join as Intervenors in a lawsuit arguing that Texas law expressly permits expanded vote by mail options due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. The League is asking the court rule that the definition of “disability” in Texas law encompasses all registered voters, since the coronavirus prevents voters from appearing at a polling location without a real likelihood of injuring their health. 

“Voters desperately need the court to provide legal clarity that our state law permits all registered voters to vote by mail in light of this global pandemic,” said Grace Chimene, president of the League of Women Voters of Texas. “We are in unprecedented times, and the need to balance public safety with administrative efficiency cannot be underestimated. Counties need to begin processing applications now.” 

The League of Women Voters of Texas and Austin Area are joined by their partners, MOVE Texas Action Fund, Workers Defense Action Fund, and a Travis County registered voter. The League and partners are represented by Texas Civil Rights Project in this action.

After the League’s petition was filed, the Texas Secretary of State issued an advisory to local election officials featuring many of the provisions suggested by the League. Additionally, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has postponed May 2nd elections to the November 3rd, and the May 26th primary runoff to July 14th.

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Contact: Kayla Vix | 202-809-9668 | [email protected]