Kansas Senate Bill SB344

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/24
• Refer: 1/16/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Requiring voter verification of identity when returning an advance voting ballot.

Impact

The implementation of SB344 will directly affect the handling and processing of advance voting ballots in Kansas. The bill specifies that any inconsistencies between the voter’s provided identification and their registration records could lead to the issuance of provisional ballots rather than automatically counting the submitted ballot. Additionally, it sets forth provisions requiring county election officers to negotiate with voters to correct any deficiencies related to signature verification before final ballot counts occur, thus introducing a procedural safeguard intended to uphold electoral integrity.

Summary

Senate Bill 344 proposes several significant amendments to the current election laws in Kansas, particularly surrounding procedures for advance voting. One of the primary mandates of the bill is the establishment of stricter voter verification requirements when transmitting advance voting ballots back to county election officials. The bill requires voters to provide government-issued photo identification or other identity verification details alongside their advance voting ballots. This move aims to enhance the integrity of the voting process by ensuring that all ballots can be distinctly attributed to verified voters.

Contention

Notably, the bill encounters pushback from advocates concerned about accessibility, as the new verification requirements could disproportionately affect voters with disabilities, those facing language barriers, and others who might struggle to comply with the stricter identification criteria. Critics argue that while the bill is positioned as a security measure, it might disenfranchise eligible voters who may not have the necessary forms of identification readily available or face challenges when submitting them due to physical or logistical barriers. As such, the discussion around SB344 reveals a tension between maintaining electoral security and ensuring accessible voting for all constituents.