Can I Take A Selfie With My Voting Ballot In Texas?

If you are preparing to vote in this year's election, you may find yourself wanting to snap a selfie with your ballot before you cast it. There used to be a time where we kept who we voted for very private. But in the age of social media, that has kinda gone out the window. So before you hit post on Instagram or other social media platforms, here is what you need to know.

It is technically illegal to post any photos in or even around the voting booth. That is because Texas law says it is illegal to use any "wireless communication device" or “any mechanical or electronic means of recording images or sound” within 100 feet of the voting area. That means it is technically illegal to even be on your phone or using your phone while waiting in line or in the booth. Now will you get in trouble as long as you aren't blatantly snapping pics all around? Probably not.

Even though the devices are prohibited, the law does not set criminal penalties for breaking it. This means that you would be asked to turn the device off or leave in almost all cases. That is even if it becomes an issue. I would say it's safe to say you can be cruising Facebook on your phone up until you go into the booth with little issue. Everyone knows that is how we pass the time nowadays.

What about if you are voting by mail, can your ballot selfie get you in trouble that way? That answer is no, post away. You are not within 100 feet of a poling location, so the law does not apply. However, you might want to make sure you aren't sharing too much personal information when you post that pic. Regardless of how and where you vote, and whether or not you want to snap a selfie, just make sure you get out and vote this year!