Missouri 2023 Regular Session

Missouri Senate Bill SB346

Introduced
1/4/23  

Caption

Modifies provisions relating to elections

Impact

The bill carries significant implications for the state's election laws by repealing certain sections of existing law and enacting new provisions which are designed to tighten electoral security. It establishes the procedures a voter must follow when casting a provisional ballot, detailing what forms of identification will be required, as well as clarifying the responsibilities of election authorities in verifying voter eligibility. This may lead to fewer challenges and disputes regarding the counting of votes, as clearer guidelines are provided.

Summary

SB346 aims to modify several existing statutes related to elections in the state of Missouri, primarily altering the rules surrounding provisional ballots and voter identification requirements. The bill seeks to clarify the processes by which voters may cast provisional ballots, especially in cases where their eligibility cannot be immediately established at the polling place. It introduces stricter identification requirements that voters must satisfy to ensure their votes are counted, thereby aiming to enhance the integrity of the electoral process.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding SB346 reflect a mixed sentiment; proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step towards ensuring fair elections by preventing voter fraud, thereby increasing public confidence in the electoral system. Conversely, critics raise concerns that the stricter identification requirements could disenfranchise certain groups of voters, particularly those who may have difficulty obtaining the necessary forms of identification or who may not have access to polling places. This tension underscores the ongoing debate about balancing election security with voter accessibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention include how the bill will impact marginalized communities who may already face barriers to voting. Advocacy groups have opposed the bill, warning that the additional identification requirements could lead to disenfranchisement of voters who do not possess the required IDs or are unable to navigate the complex processes to obtain such identification. Discussions about the implications of these laws often highlight the need for measures that ensure both security and access, indicating a larger societal debate on voting rights and election integrity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO SB182

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB926

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO HB507

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB202

Modifies provisions relating to local elections

MO SB774

Modifies the candidate filing period for certain local elections

MO SB654

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB670

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB679

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB1065

Modifies various provisions relating to elections

MO SB695

Modifies various provisions relating to elections

Similar Bills

MO SB668

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB861

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB182

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB926

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB780

Modifies provisions relating to voter identification

MO SB832

Modifies provisions relating to elections

MO SB738

Modifies various provisions relating to elections

MO SB917

Modifies procedures for counting ballots