Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HB6052

Introduced
11/7/24  
Introduced
12/20/24  
Refer
11/7/24  
Report Pass
11/12/24  
Engrossed
12/11/24  
Refer
12/18/24  
Report Pass
12/20/24  

Caption

Elections: voting equipment; allowable uses for on-demand ballot printing systems; expand. .

Impact

The passage of HB 6052 may significantly impact state laws regarding election operations and accessibility. If enacted, the bill will streamline the process for voters, particularly those registering on the day of elections, thereby increasing their ability to participate without unnecessary hurdles. Additionally, by formalizing on-demand ballot printing system provisions, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency and integrity of the voting process, ideally reducing ballot errors and improving voter satisfaction. This change suggests a move toward embracing more flexible voting technologies.

Summary

House Bill 6052 is an act aimed at amending Michigan's election laws, specifically focusing on provisions relating to the use of on-demand ballot printing systems. The bill seeks to expand the allowable uses for these systems in the production of ballots, ensuring that elections remain accessible and efficient. This legislative initiative proposes changes to multiple sections, including provisions regarding absentee ballots and the management of ballots for individuals who register to vote on election day or update their voter registration at polling locations. Overall, the bill reflects an ongoing effort to modernize Michigan's election processes.

Sentiment

Discussion surrounding HB 6052 has revealed a largely supportive sentiment among proponents of modernizing election laws. Advocates claim that the amendments will enhance voter access and ensure that ballots are readily available for those who need them. However, there are concerns voiced by some critics regarding the integrity of on-demand printing systems and the potential for misuse or errors. This has led to a polarized sentiment, with calls for comprehensive regulations and oversight accompanying the introduction of such systems.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the reliability and security of on-demand ballot printing technologies, with opponents arguing that insufficient safeguards could lead to voting irregularities. Furthermore, there are discussions on the potential implications for voter privacy and confidentiality with the new procedural changes. As the bill progresses, ensuring sufficient debate on these concerns will be crucial to maintaining public confidence in the election process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HB4695

Elections: voting procedures; early voting procedures; clarify, and clarify appointing election inspectors to early voting sites. Amends secs.674 & 720j of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.674 & 168.720j).

MI SB0367

Elections: voting procedures; early voting procedures; provide for, allow processing and tabulation of absent voter ballots during the early voting period, and allow an absent voter to tabulate the absent voter's ballot in person at a polling place or early voting site. Amends secs. 570, 662, 668b, 674, 736b, 736c, 736d, 736e, 764a, 764b, 764d, 765, 765a, 765b, 768, 769, 795b, 797a, 798b & 805 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.570 et seq.); adds secs. 8, 523b, 720a, 720b, 720c, 720d, 720e, 720f, 720g, 720h, 720i, 720j, 765c & 768a & repeals secs. 14b, 24k & 767 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.14b et seq.) TIE BAR WITH: SB 0370'23, HB 4697'23

MI AB623

Elections: printing requirements and ballot design.

MI AB1219

Elections: ballots.

MI SB0155

Elections: voting equipment; use of electronic voting systems that contain certain parts or equipment; prohibit. Amends secs. 795 & 795a of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.795 & 168.795a).

MI HB37

Elections, Voting, Ballots

MI HB43

Elections, Voting, Ballots

MI SB0948

Elections: voting equipment; standards for electronic voting systems; modify, and modify maintenance of electronic voting system source codes. Amends secs. 795, 795a & 797c of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.795 et seq.).

MI HB976

Elections; ballots used in optical scan voting systems shall use paper with a visible watermark security feature; provide

MI SB303

Voting equipment and systems; State Board approval process, printed receipt for cast ballot.

Similar Bills

WI SB834

Dissolving the Elections Commission, requiring the secretary of state to administer elections, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI AB899

Dissolving the Elections Commission, requiring the secretary of state to administer elections, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

MI HB4503

Elections: challengers; training requirements for election challengers; provide for, and provide for comprehensive election challenger training for county clerks, political parties, and other organizations. Amends secs. 31, 683 & 730 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.31 et seq.) & adds sec. 730a.

IN HB1116

Various elections matters.

MI SB0367

Elections: voting procedures; early voting procedures; provide for, allow processing and tabulation of absent voter ballots during the early voting period, and allow an absent voter to tabulate the absent voter's ballot in person at a polling place or early voting site. Amends secs. 570, 662, 668b, 674, 736b, 736c, 736d, 736e, 764a, 764b, 764d, 765, 765a, 765b, 768, 769, 795b, 797a, 798b & 805 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.570 et seq.); adds secs. 8, 523b, 720a, 720b, 720c, 720d, 720e, 720f, 720g, 720h, 720i, 720j, 765c & 768a & repeals secs. 14b, 24k & 767 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.14b et seq.) TIE BAR WITH: SB 0370'23, HB 4697'23

MI HB4695

Elections: voting procedures; early voting procedures; clarify, and clarify appointing election inspectors to early voting sites. Amends secs.674 & 720j of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.674 & 168.720j).

IN HB1336

Various election law matters.

MI SB1068

Elections: challengers; requirements and procedures for election challengers; modify, clarify challenges to voter registration, and clarify the procedure regarding certain absent voter ballots. Amends secs. 509r, 509aa, 509bb, 509cc, 512, 523b, 727, 728, 730, 731, 733, 765a & 769 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.509r et seq.); adds secs. 726c, 726d & 726e & repeals secs. 729 & 732 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.729 & 168.732).