Louisiana Senate Bill SB20

Louisiana 2020 2nd Special Session

• Introduced: 9/28/20
• Refer: 9/28/20
• Report Pass: 9/30/20
• Engrossed: 10/2/20
• Report Pass: 10/20/20
• Enrolled: 10/23/20
• Vetoed: 11/11/20

Caption

Provides relative to voting and the holding of elections impaired as the result of a declared emergency or disaster. (1/1/21) (Item #5) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The implications of SB 20 are significant as it alters the procedures governoring how elections are managed in times of crisis. By empowering the Secretary of State to devise emergency plans that include logistics for polling places, voting machines, and personnel shortages, the bill aims to maintain electoral integrity and accessibility even in adverse conditions. The bill also supports the potential inclusion of early voting as part of the emergency plans to accommodate affected voters, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding citizens' voting rights.

Summary

Senate Bill 20 aims to establish a framework for developing emergency election plans in situations where elections are impaired by gubernatorially declared emergencies or disasters. The bill mandates that the Secretary of State certify to the Governor and relevant legislative committees when an emergency affects the voting process, and it outlines procedures for creating an emergency plan to ensure voter participation and safeguard election integrity during such events. This legislative action reflects a proactive approach to addressing unforeseen challenges that may disrupt the electoral process.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 20 appears to be supportive of enhancing the electoral process through established protocols for emergencies. Senators, during discussions, emphasized the importance of having a structured response to unexpected events that could hinder elections. However, there may be some concern regarding the flexibility and effectiveness of the procedures outlined, which could lead to questions about the execution of these plans in practice.

Contention

Concerns may arise related to the balance of power between state authority and local governance. Some critics might argue that centralizing the emergency election planning process could reduce local jurisdictions' ability to respond quickly to specific local needs. The requirement for legislative approval of the plans could be seen as an additional layer of bureaucracy that may slow down necessary responses during emergencies. The debate around SB 20 highlights the tension between ensuring security and integrity in elections while also maintaining local agency in managing electoral challenges.