Vote by mail ballots: fraudulent signatures.
If enacted, AB 777 will significantly alter the legal landscape concerning the enforcement of voting laws in California. The existing law already provides for severe penalties for fraudulent activities related to mail-in ballots, but the bill proposes to increase the maximum fine from $1,000 to $10,000. This change is intended to act as a stronger deterrent against fraudulent voting practices, reinforcing safeguards within the electoral system. Moreover, the bill retains the felony classification for such offenses, ensuring serious legal repercussions for violators.
Assembly Bill No. 777, introduced by Assembly Member Harper on February 15, 2017, aims to amend Section 18578 of the California Elections Code with respect to vote by mail ballots. The bill addresses issues related to fraudulent voting by increasing the penalties for individuals who fraudulently sign the name of a fictitious person or a qualified voter when applying for or voting by mail. The legislative intent is to strengthen the integrity of the voting process in California by imposing stricter consequences for violations of election laws concerning mail-in ballots.
The bill may generate debate regarding its potential impact on voter access and the electoral process as a whole. While supporters might argue that increasing penalties is essential to curb fraud and maintain the integrity of elections, opponents could express concerns that such measures may disproportionately affect certain demographic groups, potentially deterring eligible voters from participating in the electoral process. Furthermore, the heightened penalties might also be viewed as excessive and could lead to challenges regarding the enforcement and implications for everyday voters involved in legitimate voting activities.