Iowa House Bill HSB591

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/24
• Refer: 1/18/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to an absentee ballot marking pilot program for voters with disabilities.

Impact

This bill is significant as it sets the framework for improving electoral access for individuals with disabilities in Iowa. It will potentially modify existing laws governing absentee voting to include more comprehensive support systems for affected voters. Importantly, the pilot program's feasibility will be evaluated by implementing it across selected counties, thereby allowing for a measured introduction of the proposed changes before any statewide rollout occurs. Furthermore, the requirement for annual reporting to the general assembly ensures that lawmakers can make data-driven decisions based on the program's performance.

Summary

House Study Bill 591 is proposed legislation aimed at establishing a pilot program for absentee ballot marking specifically designed for voters with disabilities. The bill empowers the state commissioner of elections to create and implement rules that facilitate this program, which includes procedures for voters who have physical limitations that prevent them from marking a ballot by hand. The intent is to ensure that these voters can independently and privately mark their absentee ballots using accessible technologies, whether through traditional methods or electronic devices that produce a paper record.

Contention

One notable point regarding HSB591 is the inclusion of a sunset clause, which will repeal the pilot program on July 1, 2027, unless the legislature decides to extend or make the program permanent based on its findings. This limitation sparks dialogue about the long-term commitment to enhancing electoral accessibility for voters with disabilities, and whether temporary measures can adequately address the ongoing needs for assistance in the voting process. The discussions surrounding this bill may also highlight differing opinions on how best to balance the need for accessibility with the administrative capacities of the election system.