Blank space on ballots; remove and provide supplementary ballot if a candidate is removed from race after ballots are printed.
Impact
The introduction of supplementary ballots aims to maintain the integrity of the election process and ensure that voters are not left without viable choices in cases of sudden candidate disqualifications. This means that elections could proceed without the complexities and potential legal challenges associated with write-in votes, which can often lead to disputes and confusion. As a result, voters would receive updated voting materials that reflect the current state of the candidates as closely as possible to the election date.
Summary
House Bill 141 seeks to amend several sections of the Mississippi Code of 1972 related to elections and ballots. The primary focus of the bill is to remove the blank space traditionally reserved for write-in candidates on ballots. Instead, the bill mandates the printing of a supplementary ballot in cases where a candidate dies, resigns, withdraws, or is removed from the race after the official ballots have already been printed, but prior to the election. This supplementary ballot would allow voters to still participate effectively by reflecting the most current list of candidates available for each race at the time of voting.
Contention
Points of contention surrounding HB 141 may arise from differing opinions on the implications of abolishing the write-in option. Supporters of the bill argue that removing the blank space simplifies the voting process and minimizes errors that can complicate ballot counting. Conversely, opponents may view this bill as a restriction on voter choice, limiting the ability of individuals to express their preferences for candidates not on the ballot for legitimate reasons, thus potentially disenfranchising some voters. The discussions during the legislative process may thus focus on balancing electoral integrity with voter rights.
Elections; revise certain provisions about names of candidates appearing on the ballot, judicial candidate's annual report and fraudulent absentee voter applications.