Elections; creating the Oklahoma Paper Ballot Act of 2021; requiring ballots be printed on paper; prohibiting use of voting devices; requiring counting by hand; repealer; effective date.
Impact
The implications of HB 2846 are far-reaching, as it would fundamentally alter the logistics of conducting elections within the state. By requiring paper ballots and hand counting, the bill is expected to increase the workload of election officials and could lead to longer wait times for results. However, proponents believe that the benefits of increased scrutiny and verification of votes will outweigh the logistical challenges. The legislation aims to address concerns about the security of electronic voting systems and enhance the electoral process by prioritizing verifiable methods of voting.
Summary
House Bill 2846, known as the Oklahoma Paper Ballot Act of 2021, proposes a significant shift in the way elections are conducted in Oklahoma. The bill mandates that all ballots be printed on paper and prohibits the use of electronic voting devices. This move aims to enhance the integrity and transparency of the electoral process by ensuring that all votes can be verified through physical documentation. Additionally, the bill requires that all votes be counted by hand rather than by automated systems, which supporters argue will reduce the potential for technical errors and increase public confidence in election outcomes.
Contention
Despite its noble intentions, the bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and election experts. Supporters, primarily from certain political factions, argue that moving away from electronic voting will protect the integrity of elections and ensure that all votes are accurately counted. Conversely, critics point to the challenges posed by manual counting processes, including the potential for human error, increased costs, and the need for additional resources to manage the heightened workload. Furthermore, there are concerns that the change could disproportionately affect rural areas with fewer resources for implementing these procedural shifts.
Prohibiting the use of ballot copies for purposes of any audit or recount of an election, setting a 7:00 p.m. deadline for receipt of advance mail ballots, requiring the use of paper ballots and hand counting, establishing legislative oversight, requiring that certain ballot records and all election records be publicly available and mandating use of a uniform paper for ballot printing.
Concerning Paper Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning Paper Ballots And The Marking And Counting Of Paper Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning The Declaration Of Election Results; And To Declare An Emergency.