HJR 161 (SJR 37) – Citizenship requirement for voting

HJR 161 proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that only United States citizens can vote in any election held in Texas. While current law requires voter citizenship, this amendment would prevent future local policies from expanding voting rights to non-citizens. It also safeguards taxpayer-funded governance by ensuring that only those fully vested in the nation’s interests—its citizens—can shape public policy. Enshrining this principle in the Constitution provides long-term security and reduces the risk of politically motivated changes in election law.