Various election law matters.
The bill mandates that voters applying for absentee ballots must provide specific identification information, such as their driver's license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number, which may arguably raise accessibility issues for some voters. Additionally, it requires that no person may supply pre-printed information on an absentee ballot application that might suggest an absentee ballot choice, tightening the control over the absentee voting process and reducing the amount of assistance some individuals may utilize when voting absentee.
Senate Bill 329, which addresses various election law matters, introduces significant amendments to the Indiana Code regarding the conduct of elections, particularly focusing on absentee voting procedures. The bill prohibits the Indiana election commission from instituting, increasing, or expanding vote by mail or absentee voting options. This includes a ban on changing the time, place, or manner of holding an election, thus attempting to maintain a static framework for election procedures regardless of external circumstances like emergencies or public health concerns.
A notable point of contention surrounding SB 329 is the restriction on voting procedures during declared disaster emergencies. The bill explicitly removes the governor's authority to alter election procedures during such times, which critics argue could hinder the adaptability needed in rapidly changing situations, like public health crises. Supporters of the bill contend that it enhances election integrity and ensures consistency in election procedures, stating that these measures are designed to mitigate potential fraud or voting irregularities.