Alabama Senate Bill SB268

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/22
• Refer: 3/1/22

Caption

Elections, prefilling of any field on voter registration application or absentee ballot application, prohibited, criminal penalties for violations imposed, Secs. 17-3-54, 17-11-4 am'd.

Impact

If enacted, SB268 will amend Sections 17-3-54 and 17-11-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975. It institutes criminal penalties for violations, categorizing any unauthorized prefilled application as a Class C felony. This reclassification raises the stakes for individuals or organizations that violate the bill, thereby setting a legal framework to deter tampering and protect voter rights. Furthermore, the bill's implementation does not require the approval of local governmental entities due to its alignment with specified exceptions in Amendment 621 of the Constitution of Alabama, allowing it to take effect without the typical legislative hurdles.

Summary

SB268 aims to enhance the integrity of the electoral process by prohibiting individuals or entities, except for certain public officials, from prefilling any fields on voter registration and absentee ballot applications without the voter's explicit consent. This legislative measure recognizes the potential risks associated with prefilling personal voter information, which can lead to fraudulent activities or unintended consequences. By disallowing such actions, SB268 seeks to fortify the safeguards around voter registration and absentee voting in Alabama.

Contention

Discussions around SB268 may evoke significant contention, particularly regarding the balance between safeguarding voter rights and potential bureaucratic hurdles for voters needing assistance in completing their applications. Critics may argue that while the intent to prevent fraud is commendable, the rigidity of the bill could hinder eligible voters—in particular, those who rely on third parties for assistance—from fully exercising their voting rights. Proponents, conversely, assert that the stringent measures are necessary to ensure the sanctity and legitimacy of the electoral process.