Elections; hand count; tabulators prohibited
If enacted, SB1348 will amend several sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes related to the conduct of elections, effectively transitioning to a system where all ballots are counted manually. This would significantly impact how elections are conducted across various jurisdictions in Arizona, as it disrupts the long-standing reliance on electronic voting machines. Counties will need to prepare for extensive manpower and logistical challenges associated with conducting thorough hand counts, potentially leading to longer election process timelines and increased costs related to staffing and resources. Additionally, there might be challenges related to maintaining the security of physical ballots throughout the counting process.
SB1348 is an election reform bill in Arizona that seeks to amend existing electoral laws by prohibiting the use of electronic tabulators and mandating hand counting of all votes cast in elections. The bill responds to growing concerns regarding the integrity of electronic voting systems following allegations of fraud and discrepancies in recent elections. By shifting to a hand count system, supporters argue that it increases transparency and assures voters that their choices are accurately represented without the potential for electronic malfunctions or manipulation. The emphasis on hand counting is intended to restore public confidence in election processes.
The bill has faced notable contention, particularly from opponents who argue that mandating hand counts for all votes could create inefficiencies and delays in the election process. Critics point out that, while transparency is essential, the current electronic systems have undergone various certifications and testing to ensure their reliability and security. Additionally, there are concerns that the bill may disenfranchise voters by introducing complications to the voting process, particularly for voters who rely on absentee ballots or early voting, as the logistics of hand counting all ballots could lead to errors or mismanagement during peak voting times. Proponents of SB1348 maintain that hand counting would eliminate the risks associated with electronic systems and uphold the fundamental principles of accountability in democratic processes.