Require hand counting as the official manner of counting ballots
If enacted, SB 435 would require all elections conducted under its jurisdiction to abandon automated systems for vote counting, thereby potentially impacting the efficiency and speed of results reporting. This legislative move is anticipated to shift the operational burden onto election administrators who will need to adapt their processes to accommodate manual counting procedures. Proponents argue that this will reduce the risks of technical failures associated with electronic systems and fortify election integrity, as every vote will be verifiably counted by human adjudication.
Senate Bill 435 introduces significant changes to the process of counting votes in elections by mandating hand counting as the primary method for tabulating ballots. This bill aims to replace or significantly reduce the reliance on electronic voting systems, asserting the necessity for transparency and integrity in the electoral process. By revising the definitions of 'ballot' and 'voting system', the bill emphasizes the use of paper ballots, which must be counted manually, thereby aiming to enhance public trust in the electoral outcomes.
Overall, SB 435 aims to reshape the electoral landscape of the state by emphasizing manual ballot counting. Its passage would represent a significant departure from current practices that utilize electronic systems for vote tabulation. While the bill seeks to bolster public confidence in electoral integrity, discussions continue about its practicality and the potential disruptions it may cause within the electoral administration framework.
The central point of contention surrounding SB 435 hinges on debates over election security and efficiency. Proponents assert that reliance on manual counting enhances transparency and reduces avenues for tampering, while opponents raise concerns about the feasibility of implementing such a system efficiently, particularly in high turnout elections. Additionally, the adjustments to definitions and processes related to provisional and absentee ballots raise questions regarding voter access and the logistical challenges of ensuring every eligible vote counts accurately.