Get F.I.T. is a citizen leadership development program for people of faith, to help you and your congregation participate in the public policy debate in ways that express your faith, honor diversity of opinion, and respect laws governing political activity by religious organizations.


Take the Get FIT Challenge!

Getting Started: Take the FITness Quiz

This Month's FITness Focus

From the Horse's Mouth

Get FIT Know-How Guides (download or read online)

FITness Calendar

FITness Partners

Contact Us

Know the Law on Political Activity by Religious Organizations

The 2006 election year will feature increased attention to political activity by religious groups. The law is clear and guidance is available, so bone up on the do's and don'ts now for a worry-free 2006.

2005-2006 TEXAS ELECTION CALENDAR

The 2005-06 election cycle will be an important time in Texas. As we prepare for statewide elections, there will be valuable opportunities to…

discuss vital issues like health care, public schools, prisons, and pollution

develop relationships with current elected officials and candidates and share with them your hopes and concerns for your local community and for Texas

build strong networks with other congregations and individuals of faith so you can work together to influence issues you all care about

teach everyone in your congregation about why people of faith should be strong citizens, and how they can take steps to “get F.I.T.”

To find out more about voting dates and other details about elections, contact the Secretary of State's office. On the web at

http://www.sos.state.tx.us


SEPTEMBER 10, 2005 - UNIFORM ELECTION DATE
Last Day to Register to Vote August 11, 2005
First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail July 12, 2005
Last Day to Apply for a Ballot by Mail (received not postmarked) September 2, 2005 (September 3rd is the 7th day, but deadline moves to preceding business day, Friday)
First Day of Early Voting August 24, 2005
Last Day of Early Voting September 6, 2005

NOVEMBER 8, 2005 - UNIFORM ELECTION DATE
Last Day to Register to Vote October 11, 2005 (October 9th is 30th day, but deadline moves to next business day, Tuesday, due to Columbus Day holiday)
First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail September 9, 2005
Last Day to Apply for a Ballot by Mail (received not postmarked) November 1, 2005
First Day of Early Voting October 24, 2005
Last Day of Early Voting November 4, 2005

March 7, 2006 - PRIMARY ELECTION DATE
First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail January 6, 2006
Last Day to Register to Vote February 6, 2006
First Day of Early Voting February 20, 2006
Last Day to Apply for a Ballot by Mail (received not postmarked) February 28, 2006
Last Day of Early Voting March 3, 2006

APRIL 11, 2006 - PRIMARY RUNOFF ELECTION DATE
First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail February 10, 2006 (if did not request runoff ballot on application for primary ballot)
First Day to Apply of Ballot by Mail March 13, 2006 (March 12th is the 30th day, but deadline moves to next business day, Monday)
First Day of Early Voting April 3, 2006
Last Day to Apply for a Ballot by Mail (received not postmarked) April 4, 2006
Last Day of Early Voting April 7, 2006

MAY 13, 2006 - UNIFORM LOCAL ELECTION DATE
First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail March 14, 2006
Last Day to Register to Vote April 13, 2006
First Day of Early Voting May 1, 2006
Last Day to Apply for a Ballot by Mail (received not postmarked) May 5, 2006 (May 6th is the 7th day, but deadline moves to preceding business day, Friday)
Last Day of Early Voting May 9, 2006

NOVEMBER 7, 2006 - UNIFORM ELECTION DATE
First Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail September 8, 2006
Last Day to Register to Vote October 10, 2006 (Oct. 8th is 30th day, but deadline moves to the next business day, Tuesday, due to Columbus Day)
First Day of Early Voting October 23, 2006 (17th day before election falls on a Saturday, first day moves to next business day)
Last Day to Apply for a Ballot by Mail (received not postmarked) October 31, 2006
Last Day of Early Voting November 3, 2006

From the Horse's Mouth: Why the Editor didn't print your letter

Copyright 2005-2006 Texas Impact Education Fund. PO Box 13381 Capitol Station, Austin, Texas 78711/ 512.472.3903