Hawaii Senate Bill SB47

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/20/23
• Report Pass: 3/2/23
• Engrossed: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/9/23
• Report Pass: 3/29/23

Caption

Relating To Arrangement Of Candidate Names On Ballots.

Impact

If SB47 is enacted, it will require the Office of Elections to enter into new contracts for voting equipment or services that must include the capability to randomize candidate names on ballots. The bill mandates that, where technologically feasible, candidates' names will be presented in a randomized order. This change is set to be implemented for the election cycle beginning on January 1, 2024, effectively changing the procedural approach to how ballots are organized in the state.

Summary

SB47 is a bill aimed at the arrangement of candidate names on ballots in Hawaii. Currently, candidates are listed in alphabetical order, which studies suggest gives an unfair advantage to the candidates listed first. This bill seeks to amend the state election laws to require that candidates' names be randomized on ballots to ensure a fairer representation. The purpose is to prevent any bias that arises from alphabetical ordering, thereby promoting equity among candidates during elections.

Procedure

The bill outlines that procedures must be established by the chief election officer to implement these changes. Additionally, there is a provision for informing voters and candidates about the randomized arrangement, moving away from the traditional alphabetical list. This requirement highlights the bill's emphasis on transparency and communication within the electoral process.

Contention

While the bill aims to create a more equitable election process, there may be concerns regarding its implementation. Resistance could arise from arguments about the costs of updating voting systems to accommodate name randomization. Furthermore, some critics may question whether this addition will lead to significant changes in voting outcomes or merely complicate the voting process for the public. The bill's ability to enhance voter understanding and engagement remains a topic of discussion among legislators.