Mississippi Senate Bill SB2110

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Affidavit ballots; reduce length of time within which certain persons must present proper voter ID or execute religious exemption.

Impact

This amendment has significant implications for election procedures in Mississippi. By shortening the time frame allowed for voters to present acceptable identification or to file for a religious exemption, the bill seeks to ensure a more efficient electoral process. However, this adjustment also raises concerns that it may unintentionally disenfranchise voters who may not be able to meet the new, stricter deadline, thus affecting their ability to have their ballots counted.

Summary

Senate Bill 2110 amends specific sections of the Mississippi Code related to voter identification requirements and the process for casting ballot by affidavit. This bill reduces the timeframe for voters who cannot present acceptable photographic identification from five days to three days after an election to resolve their identification status or to execute a religious exemption affidavit. The aim is to streamline the voting process and increase accountability regarding ballot counting in instances where identification issues arise.

Contention

Notably, proponents argue that this bill strengthens voting integrity by reinforcing identification requirements and ensuring that all ballots are counted within a reduced timeframe. Critics, on the other hand, view it as a potential barrier to voting access, particularly for marginalized groups and those without immediate access to the necessary identification. The balance between maintaining election security and ensuring voter accessibility remains a contentious topic within legislative discussions surrounding SB2110.