The Libertarian Party of Texas (LPTexas) proudly supports House Bill 4309, a vital measure that amends the Texas Election Code to redirect candidate filing fees from the State to the nominating party. This reform aligns with our principles of economic liberty, electoral fairness, and voluntary association.

 

As stated in our platform, LPTexas firmly believes that "party primaries are not a function of the state, but processes which should be self-funded" (Platform Section I.5.d). HB 4309 corrects an unjust system that currently forces candidates to fund the state apparatus through mandatory filing fees, whether or not they align with its operation. Instead, by allowing these fees to go directly to the party that nominates the candidate, HB 4309 honors the right of voluntary association and respects the principle that political parties are private, voluntary organizations—not extensions of government power.

Moreover, LPTexas holds that taxation and coercive collection of funds are inherently unjust (Platform Section II.1). By ensuring that filing fees serve to support the organizations that candidates freely choose to affiliate with, HB 4309 upholds the Non-Aggression Principle and furthers a freer, more voluntary political system.

Finally, HB 4309 empowers emerging parties and independent voices in Texas. It removes financial barriers that currently stifle competition and entrench a two-party duopoly—a structure LPTexas fundamentally opposes (Platform Section I.5.d). By strengthening party autonomy and removing unnecessary state intervention, this legislation helps create a truly representative and open electoral system.

We urge the Legislature and the people of Texas to support HB 4309 as a critical step toward restoring freedom, fairness, and voluntary association in our electoral process.