Arizona 2023 Regular Session

Arizona House Bill HB2785

Introduced
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/16/23  

Caption

Early voting; absentee; military

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 2785 would have significant implications for election processes in Arizona. By clearly defining procedures for early voting and absentee ballots, the bill aims to ensure that more voters can participate in elections, even when they cannot attend polling places. The amendments address situations where voters might encounter emergencies, making provisions for them to vote via special election boards at their locations, thereby enhancing accessibility to the electoral process.

Summary

House Bill 2785 seeks to amend existing statutes related to early voting, absentee ballots, and military voting in Arizona. The bill proposes changes to how ballots are processed, the conditions for casting votes under emergency situations, and procedures for ensuring the integrity of the voting process. It aims to streamline the voting experience for citizens, particularly for those who may be out of state or unable to vote in person due to health issues or military service.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding House Bill 2785 appears largely supportive among lawmakers advocating for more inclusive voting measures. However, there are concerns raised by some critics regarding the potential for increased regulation and the need for proper identification and verification procedures which could complicate the voting process for some citizens. Overall, the discourse indicates a desire to facilitate voting while maintaining the integrity of the electoral system.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates about voter identification requirements and verification processes, which some argue may disenfranchise certain groups of voters. Proponents of the bill emphasize the importance of voter security and integrity, whereas opponents highlight the necessity of making the voting process simpler and more accessible. This controversy reflects the broader national conversation about how to balance election security with the right to vote.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ HB2690

Permanent early voting list.

AZ SB1244

Permanent early voting list

AZ HB2733

Elections; early voting; weekends; emergencies

AZ HB2065

Early ballots; Friday deadline

AZ SB1541

Early voting locations

AZ HB2338

Early voting; weekend hours

AZ HCR2032

Voting centers; precinct voting

AZ SB1170

Precinct voting; tally; identification; ballot

AZ HB2547

Voting centers ban; precinct size

AZ HB2350

Voting centers; board of supervisors

Similar Bills

AZ SB1733

Primary; identification; canvass; recounts; ballots.

AZ HB2785

Primary; identification; canvass; recounts; ballots

AZ SCR1032

Plenary legislative authority; elections

AZ HCR2040

In-person precinct voting; absentee voters

AZ HB2571

Early voting; limitations; hand count

AZ SB1335

Election day voting; early voting

AZ SB1404

Eligibility; early voting; list

AZ HB2232

Elections; identification; revisions; mail-in; tabulation.