Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas Senate Bill SB343

Introduced
1/12/24  
Refer
1/16/24  

Caption

Prohibiting the mailing of advance voting ballot applications to voters unless by a county election official pursuant to a request by the voter.

Impact

By mandating that only county election officials can send applications for advance voting ballots, SB343 seeks to centralize and regulate the distribution of voting materials. This change could significantly reduce the risk of voter fraud and improve the management of ballots throughout the election process. Additionally, it enhances identification requirements for voters applying for ballots. The bill also includes provisions for verifying voter signatures and affording opportunities for provisional ballots under certain circumstances, which could streamline the voting process for those unable to provide adequate identification at the time of voting.

Summary

Senate Bill 343 aims to amend election laws in Kansas specifically concerning advance voting ballots. The bill prohibits the mailing of advance voting ballot applications except by county election officials and only upon the request of the voter. This legislative measure is being introduced to increase the integrity of the voting process and to ensure that ballot applications are not sent out indiscriminately or fraudulently. The bill establishes specific criteria for how voters may request and verify their identities when applying for advance voting ballots, emphasizing stricter control over the process.

Contention

While proponents of SB343 argue that it enhances election security and accountability, critics contend that it may inadvertently disenfranchise eligible voters. Concerns have been raised regarding the increased burden on voters, particularly those who may find it difficult to provide the required identification or navigate the process of requesting ballots. The bill's supporters assert that it is necessary for maintaining the integrity of elections, while opponents worry that it imposes unnecessary barriers to voting, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those facing logistic challenges.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS HB2055

Prohibiting third parties from mailing advance voting ballot applications to registered voters.

KS SB366

Requiring that county election officers receive a request for an application for an advance voting ballot from a voter before mailing such application to such voter.

KS SB231

Modifying the requirements for soliciting registered voters to submit an application for an advance voting ballot.

KS HB2512

Substitute for HB 2512 by Committee on Elections - Relating to advance voting ballots; requiring county election officers to provide at least four hours of advance voting in-person on the Saturday before an election; providing after January 1, 2025, such ballots cast in-person be received in the county election office by 7:00 p.m. on the Sunday proceeding the election; exception to allow voting in-person until 12:00 noon on Monday for good cause.

KS HB2269

Requiring the election commissioners in the four largest counties to designate at least three advance voting sites as determined by the board of county commissioners and providing for in-person advance voting 20 days prior to an election in such counties.

KS HB2513

Changing the time period for the transmittal and return of advance voting ballots and requiring such ballots be returned by the day of the election.

KS HB2016

Including funeral home online obituary notices as sufficient grounds for removal of a deceased voter from the voter registration books; requiring that poll workers be citizens of the United States and live within the state of Kansas; prohibiting the disqualification of active military members, spouses or other dependents who are citizens of the United States as poll workers on the basis of residency or being a registered voter; relating to advance voting ballot applications; modifying the requirements for soliciting registered voters to submit advance voting applications.

KS SB260

Prohibiting remote ballot boxes, providing for reporting and publication of voting results and public access to voting records and materials, limiting advance voting provisions and requiring receipt of advance voting ballots by election day, limiting the size of precincts, making the general election a state holiday, providing that the sheriff has sole jurisdiction for and shall provide security at voting places, establishing the authority of the legislature over elections with preeminence over rules and regulations of the secretary of state and federal election law and making certain election crimes felonies.

KS SB365

Requiring all advance voting ballots be returned by 7:00 p.m. on election day.

KS SB321

Providing for a presidential preference primary election on March 19, 2024, and establishing voter registration and voting procedures for such election.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.