One can contend that COVID-19’s entrance and the 2020 presidential race have revived Texas’ judicial system and its application to the state constitution. Numerous significant lawsuits deal with Texans’ fundamental right to vote. The ability of Texans to vote appears to be actively regulated by Texas courts (Legislative reference library of Texas, n.d.). Additionally, they seem to have the ability to influence how difficult or simple it is for someone to vote in Texas. However, there are several other essential aspects that the ongoing changes imply. Taking into account the provisions of Senate Bill 1, Texas will become the nation’s most difficult state to vote in. This law prohibits drive-through voting, precludes disabled electorate and those with insignificant English proficiency from obtaining required support, broadens criminal sanctions in the voting code, and gives politically biased poll watchers more power. It was made by lawmakers ignoring countless hours of witness statements from proponents and the electorate.
Then, in Texas, there are more than 60% of inmates have not received a criminal conviction. By preventing some individuals from being freed from prison before even paying a debt collector or putting up the money, the changes exacerbate an unfair system. As a result, those who cannot afford money are prohibited from being released, while those who can pay cash can bribe their way out of the situation while awaiting trial. Moreover, over the past ten years, persons of color have contributed more than 90% of Texas’ demographic increase. Due to this population expansion, the state gained two additional congressional seats. Nonetheless, the newly approved congressional redistricting plan does not include any additional Black or Latin opportunity seats. There will probably be a long legal battle over these maps. Polls that take place while the lawsuit is ongoing would be held in accordance with the maps adopted by the government unless a judge granted emergency aid for electors of color. Thus, it seems that the current changes and the courts’ power do not contribute to the enhancement of appropriate and democratic processes in the state.
Reference
Legislative reference library of Texas. (n.d.). Amendments to the Texas constitution since 1876. Web.