Elections and Primaries; rules or regulations adopted by the State Election Board prior to a general primary, general election, or runoff thereof; limit the effective date
The bill establishes stricter guidelines regarding the acceptance of hand-delivered absentee ballots. Specifically, such ballots will not be accepted after the end of the advance voting period, which could significantly affect voters, particularly those in assisted living or care facilities. It provides for supervised assistance in preparing absentee ballots for residents in these facilities, indicating a more inclusive approach to voting, albeit with documented procedures to ensure fairness and oversight during the process.
Senate Bill 270 aims to amend various provisions related to elections in Georgia, focusing on the rules and regulations adopted by the State Election Board. One of the primary changes proposed is the limitation on the effective date of any new rules introduced by the board if they are adopted within 60 days of a primary, general election, or runoff. This measure is designed to ensure that modifications to election procedures are implemented well ahead of crucial voting dates, thereby promoting transparency and stability in election administration.
Key points of contention surrounding SB 270 focus on its implications for voter accessibility and the management of absentee voting. Critics may raise concerns that limiting the acceptance of absentee ballots could disenfranchise voters who face barriers in completing their ballots during the prescribed time frames. Proponents argue that the distinctions created by this bill help to reinforce the integrity of the election process while ensuring that voters who need help are adequately supported through supervised assistance events.