New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB415

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/10/23  

Caption

Making ballots cast in elections public documents.

Impact

The passage of HB 415 would modify existing laws related to the confidentiality of ballots, thus impacting how election materials are handled and stored. By making ballots publicly accessible, the legislation may ensure that voters have the ability to verify their votes and hold the election process accountable. However, it also raises concerns regarding voter privacy and the potential misuse of ballot information. The bill's implementation will require revisions to current protocols around ballot collection, storage, and release to ensure compliance with the new public access requirements.

Summary

House Bill 415 seeks to enhance the transparency of the electoral process by classifying ballots cast in elections as public documents. This legislation mandates that the Secretary of State must make images of these ballots available to the public. Furthermore, the bill allows for ballots to be viewed under the 'right to know' request, potentially increasing public scrutiny of election procedures and outcomes. The intention behind this bill is to promote transparency and trust in the electoral process among the voting population.

Sentiment

Reactions to HB 415 are mixed, with proponents arguing that the bill is a significant step toward greater accountability in elections. Supporters believe that public access to ballot information could enhance public confidence in elections and deter potential fraud. On the other hand, opponents express concerns about the implications for voter privacy, arguing that the public release of ballots may lead to intimidation or coercion. This polarized sentiment reflects broader debates about the balance between transparency and privacy in electoral processes.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 415 revolve around the balance of transparency in elections and the safeguarding of voter privacy. Critics worry that allowing public access to ballots could deter individuals from voting freely. Supporters counter by asserting that with proper safeguards, increased transparency will lead to greater electoral integrity. The overarching debate touches on highlighted tensions between upholding voting rights and establishing mechanisms for public verification in the electoral process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB387

Permitting election ballots to be viewed pursuant to a right to know request.

NH HB387

Permitting election ballots to be viewed pursuant to a right to know request.

NH HB482

Requiring the use of ballots with embedded security, traceability, and relative to the chain of custody for ballots cast in elections.

NH HB420

Relative to the chain of custody for ballots.

NH HB1522

Requiring the use of ballots with embedded security and relative to chain of custody of absentee ballots.

NH HB1457

Relative to chain of custody of ballot boxes after an election.

NH HB154

Relative to electronic ballot counting devices.

NH HB1523

Revising the moderator's worksheet for counting votes in elections.

NH HB1542

Relative to documentation required to prove a voter's eligibility to vote.

NH HB345

Enabling ranked-choice voting for state party primary elections and municipal elections.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.