$10M in election security grant announced for Texans
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- An election security grant aimed to strengthen election integrity throughout Texas launched Wednesday, Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced in a press release.
Grants will be available to assist Texas’ 254 counties in efforts to secure elections and about $10 million in grants will be available using the federal Help America Vote Act funds. According to the release, the grant amounts are based on the number of registered voters in each county. It also requires a 20 percent county match.
In the release, Nelson said these grants will “go a long way,” adding that it will help counties “better secure their elections.”
“I’m pleased to partner with counties to promote election security throughout Texas," said Nelson.
Funding for these grants came from money given to the state as part of the Help America Vote Act, the release said. Funding priorities included:
- Compliant with paper audit trail requirements
- Replacement of decertified electronic pollbooks
- Video surveillance systems to comply with ballot security measures
- Protection of election equipment and supplies
- IT services and upgrade
The deadline to submit grant applications is June 30, and awards will be made by Aug. 1. The release noted that counties must submit a resolution from its commissioners county and must document how funds will be used to enhance election security.
“Texas voters deserve free and secure elections,” Nelson said. “These grants will help ensure that security for many election cycles to come.”