Hays County has revised its election precincts to comply with new voting laws established during the Texas Legislature’s recent special session. The adjustments were formally approved during a meeting of the Commissioners Court on October 28, 2023. These changes are part of a broader effort to ensure that local election processes meet both state and federal requirements, particularly the National Voter Registration Act.
In a statement, Hays County Election Administrator Jennifer Doinoff emphasized that the adjustments are not a form of redistricting but rather a necessary step to adhere to legal standards. “What we’re doing is not redistricting; we’re ensuring our precincts comply with the National Voter Registration Act,” she stated. The new plans involve the creation of 88 Voting Tabulation Districts (VTDs), which include three new precincts while eliminating seven existing ones. Minor boundary adjustments have been made to align with the evolving regulations.
Compliance and Voter Population Considerations
The process of establishing VTDs is guided by strict legal parameters. Doinoff pointed out that VTDs cannot cross established boundaries of Districts of Concern (DOC). This stipulation is crucial as it aims to address voting rights issues effectively. The county has also prioritized the balance of voter populations within each precinct, targeting a range of 100 to 5,000 active voters per district.
Doinoff elaborated on the strategy, stating, “We aim to keep districts small — usually under 3,500 [voters] — so that VTDs have some resiliency to grow between redistricting sessions.” This forward-thinking approach demonstrates a commitment to both current electoral needs and future demographic shifts.
Next Steps for Public Engagement
With the court’s approval, Hays County officials are now preparing detailed maps that will outline the new precinct boundaries. These maps will be made available to the public, allowing residents to familiarize themselves with the changes. However, the official implementation of these adjustments will not take place until after the upcoming December runoff elections.
The revisions to Hays County’s election precincts reflect a methodical response to legislative changes, ensuring that the electoral framework remains compliant while also being responsive to the needs of the community. As the county navigates this transition, officials remain focused on upholding the integrity of the voting process and maintaining accessibility for all voters.