By KRWG News
Texas – Republican lawmakers in the Texas House have voted to pass numerous changes to state election law.
Among the new rules approved Monday was a ban on paying people based on the number of voters they register, and changing the rules for operating primary elections.
What started out as largely technical measure became a vehicle for lawmakers to tack on more sweeping bills that looked like they wouldn't make it to on their own.
Many of the new rules were aimed at absentee voters who require help in casting a ballot. An amendment by state Rep. Aaron Pena would restrict the number of voters one person may assist.
Other rules concerned overseas voters. Republican lawmakers said the rules were intended to fight voter fraud. Opponents say they will discourage turnout.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.