Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas Senate Bill SB366

Introduced

1/18/24

Refer

1/19/24

Report Pass

1/30/24

Failed

4/30/24

Caption

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.

Impact

The enactment of SB 366 is likely to significantly impact voter behavior and election procedures in Kansas. By enforcing a system where voters must explicitly request their advance voting ballots, the bill may reduce the likelihood of ballots being sent to incorrect or unverified addresses. This change is anticipated to enhance the accuracy of voter rolls and may aid in addressing concerns around election security and integrity. However, the bill could also place additional responsibilities on voters to be proactive in requesting their ballots, which may affect turnout, particularly among those who are less familiar with the process.

Summary

Senate Bill 366 introduces new requirements for advance voting in Kansas, focusing on voter applications for advance voting ballots. Under this bill, county election officers are mandated to receive a request from voters before mailing an application for an advance voting ballot to them. This change is aimed at ensuring that ballots are sent only to those who formally request them, enhancing the integrity of the voting process and preventing any unauthorized mailings. The bill amends existing statutes and repeals the outdated provisions to align with the new requirements, thereby updating the legislative framework governing advance voting in the state.

Contention

Notably, SB 366 may face criticisms from various advocacy groups that argue this approach could unintentionally disenfranchise voters who may struggle to navigate the new application process. There are concerns that individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those lacking familiarity with the voting system might find it more challenging to ensure their participation in elections. Moreover, there could be debates surrounding the balance between enhancing election security and ensuring accessibility for all voters, which may lead to opposition from organizations advocating for voter rights.

Latest SB366 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS SB343

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

KS HB2055

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

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 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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.