Georgia House Bill HB894

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24

Caption

Elections; prohibit bar codes, QR codes, and other machine codes on ballots printed by electronic ballot markers

Impact

If enacted, HB 894 would significantly impact how ballots are designed and processed in Georgia. By removing machine-readable codes, the bill aims to enhance the integrity of the ballot, making it more accessible and less susceptible to interpretation errors during vote counting and audits. This could be seen as a critical step in boosting voter confidence in the electoral process by ensuring that every vote is counted as intended without the potential for misinterpretation of machine codes.

Summary

House Bill 894 aims to amend the Georgia elections code by prohibiting the use of bar codes, QR codes, and other machine codes on ballots printed by electronic ballot markers. This legislation seeks to simplify the ballot design, ensuring that only the printed text portion of the ballot indicates the elector's selection will be considered the official ballot. It stipulates that this text will govern the results for vote tabulation, recounts, and audits, eliminating potential complications that these machine-readable codes could present during these processes.

Contention

However, the bill may face scrutiny and debate over its implications for modernizing election infrastructure. Proponents argue that eliminating these codes preserves simplicity in the voting process and protects against technical failures that could arise from using electronic systems. Critics may counter that this move could hinder efficiency and modernization efforts within the electoral system, potentially complicating the integration of new technology that relies on these codes for improved functionality and security.