Generally revise election laws creating an election integrity team
This legislation represents a significant shift in how election integrity is managed at the state level. By creating a specialized team with the authority to audit results, HB 905 seeks to address concerns about the reliability of election outcomes. The appropriation of $100,000 annually from the general fund signifies a commitment to funding these enhanced security measures, indicating that the state is taking proactive steps to ensure the sanctity of its electoral processes.
House Bill 905, also known as the Election Security Act, aims to enhance the integrity of the electoral process in Montana by establishing an Election Security Team. This team will consist of members appointed by various state officials, including the governor and legislative leaders, and will be responsible for conducting independent audits of election results. Notably, the team is mandated to perform a full hand count of all ballots within a year after each general election, thereby increasing the transparency and oversight of the electoral process.
The formation of this Election Security Team could lead to debates over the implications of such oversight on local election administration. Critics might argue that the requirement for a state-run hand count could complicate local election processes and place undue burdens on election administrators. Supporters, however, are likely to advocate that these measures restore public confidence in the electoral system, especially in an era of increasing scrutiny over electoral integrity.
The provisions of HB 905 are intended to be codified in Title 13, chapter 17 of state law, thus embedding the regulations into existing legislative frameworks. The act has specific effective and termination dates, making it a structured initiative with clear timelines for implementation and evaluation.