Indiana 2024 Regular Session

Indiana House Bill HB1265

Introduced
1/9/24  
Refer
1/9/24  
Report Pass
1/25/24  
Engrossed
1/31/24  
Refer
2/5/24  
Report Pass
2/20/24  
Enrolled
3/1/24  
Passed
3/13/24  
Chaptered
3/13/24  

Caption

Various elections matters.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact the way elections are conducted, particularly concerning absentee voting. Key provisions include establishing clearer guidelines for absentee ballot applications, making them more accessible to voters, while also ensuring that voters are properly informed about signature verification processes. These changes aim to streamline the voting process and promote voter participation by providing additional options to those unable to vote in person.

Summary

House Bill 1265 addresses various matters related to elections in Indiana, particularly focusing on absentee ballot procedures and the process for filling candidate vacancies. The bill outlines amendments to existing legislative provisions, including criteria for candidacy and the conditions under which candidates can be appointed to fill vacancies after a primary election. By clarifying these regulations, HB1265 seeks to enhance the efficiency and integrity of the election process in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1265 reflects a general consensus on the need for more robust voting procedures; however, concerns remain regarding the implementation of these changes and their impact on election integrity. Supporters see the bill as a step forward in making voting more accessible, while critics may worry about potential loopholes or complications arising from new absentee ballot regulations. Overall, the discussion around the bill indicates a balanced view of advancing voter rights while safeguarding election security.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions around HB1265 focus on the balance between accessibility and security in the absentee voting process. Although proponents argue that extended options for absentee voting will encourage higher participation rates, critics fear that relaxed signature verification standards could lead to fraud. The debate continues to highlight the tension between making voting easier for citizens and ensuring that elections remain fair and free from unethical practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IN HB1116

Various elections matters.

IN HB1336

Various election law matters.

IN SB0224

Various elections matters.

IN HB1335

Various election law matters.

IN HB1499

Various tax matters.

IN HB1505

Elections matters.

IN HB1074

School board elections.

IN HB1383

Documents and procedures concerning elections.

IN HB1036

School board elections.

IN HB1428

School board elections.

Similar Bills

IN HB1173

Various elections matters.

IN SB0328

Elections.

IN HB1336

Various election law matters.

IN HB1116

Electronic voting machines.

AZ SB1653

Early voting; identification; emergency voting

IN HB1264

Election security.

MI HB4227

Elections: qualified voter file; most recent digitized photographic image of an elector to be contained in the qualified vote file; require, and require election officials to compare the digitized photographic image of an elector to that elector before voting. Amends secs. 509q, 509gg, 509hh, 523, 813 & 829 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.509q et seq.).

AZ HB2785

Primary; identification; canvass; recounts; ballots