The implications of SB1351 on state laws are significant. By formalizing the process for early voting requests and the maintenance of an active early voting list, the bill aims to streamline and enhance voter participation in elections. It emphasizes the importance of periodic renewal of voter requests to ensure that the list remains current and minimizes the chances of fraudulent voting practices. Additionally, the bill mandates that voters who do not cast early ballots in two consecutive elections will be removed from the list unless they confirm their desire to remain on it.
Summary
SB1351, introduced by Senator Rogers, amends Arizona's Revised Statutes specifically addressing the active early voting list. The bill allows any voter to request inclusion on an early voting list to receive a mail-in ballot for elections. This registration lasts for a two-year period, after which voters must renew their request to continue receiving mail-in ballots. The county recorder is tasked with maintaining this list and, in compliance with the bill, must include a renewal date for each voter.
Contention
Notably, there are potential points of contention regarding voter compliance and the scrutiny of mail-in ballot processes. Critics could argue that the requirement for renewal every two years may disenfranchise voters who may forget to renew their status. Furthermore, the stipulation for maintaining a current voter registration and responding to notices may disproportionately affect communities with less access to information or equal resources to engage with the voting system. There is also the civil penalty for failing to submit early voting forms properly, which could raise concerns about the fairness of enforcement against voters.
Establishes deadline for DEP implementation of prescribed burn program, and provides for establishment of prescribed burn acreage goals, schedules, calendars, training program, and mobile deployment units to provide on-site prescribed burn training and assistance.