Michigan Senate Bill SB0367

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/6/23
• Refer: 6/6/23
• Report Pass: 6/14/23
• Refer: 6/14/23
• Engrossed: 6/14/23
• Report Pass: 6/20/23
• Enrolled: 6/28/23
• Chaptered: 7/20/23
• Passed: 7/20/23

Caption

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

Impact

This legislation impacts multiple sections of the Michigan election laws, enhancing the functionality of the absentee voting process and establishing requirements for early voting sites. It mandates municipalities to ensure that every voter is served by at least one early voting site, taking into consideration factors like expected turnout and public accessibility. This is expected to modernize voting procedures and improve access to elections for many residents across Michigan.

Summary

Senate Bill 0367 aims to amend the election laws in Michigan, particularly focusing on the procedures for voting and early voting. The bill introduces provisions allowing for the processing and tabulation of absentee voter ballots during the early voting period, expanding options for voters who might be unable to cast their ballots on Election Day. Notably, the bill allows absentee voters the opportunity to tabulate their ballots in person at polling places or early voting sites, which is a significant shift intended to enhance voter access and participation.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 0367 appears to be positive among supporters who view it as a progressive step toward making voting more accessible and efficient. However, there are concerns from some factions about the potential for increased complexity in administering these changes. This bill is considered a necessary adjustment to the state's election laws to ensure they are in line with contemporary voting practices and voter needs.

Contention

While many support the bill, notable points of contention include debates about the sufficiency of measures to secure against potential voter fraud and the administrative burden it places on local election officials. Critics argue that while the bill aims to streamline processes, the logistics of implementing such changes, especially for absentee ballot counting, could lead to confusion and increased risks of errors if not managed cautiously. The interplay between enhancing voter access and maintaining election integrity remains a core concern in discussions surrounding this legislation.