New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1383

Introduced
12/1/21  
Refer
12/1/21  

Caption

Relative to electronic copies of absentee ballot lists.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1383 will have a significant impact on election law in New Hampshire, specifically concerning how absentee ballot information is handled. By minimizing the time taken to fulfill requests for absentee ballot lists, the bill can help candidates engage more effectively with the electorate during election periods. Additionally, transitioning to electronic formats for such vital information lends itself to greater efficiency and may help streamline election processes overall.

Summary

House Bill 1383 is designed to enhance the process by which absentee ballot lists are requested and distributed. This bill mandates that absentee ballot lists be provided on request within one business day, ensuring a quicker response for candidates and their agents who require access to this information. The shift towards electronic copies aligns with modern practices and aims to facilitate better communication and efficiency in the election process. The bill seeks to amend existing law in a way that accelerates the accessibility of voter information while maintaining privacy safeguards.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1383 appears to be positive, especially among proponents who argue that the bill encourages transparency in the electoral process and supports candidate efforts to connect with voters. However, there could be concerns raised by privacy advocates about how access to this information might be managed, specifically regarding the potential for misuse or inappropriate access to voter data.

Contention

One notable point of contention might arise around the balance between timely access to voter information and the protection of personal data. While the bill seeks to expedite the distribution of absentee ballot lists, it does so under stringent provisions designed to uphold existing privacy standards. Critics may argue the risk of immediate access could overshadow these protections in practice, necessitating ongoing dialogue about the implications of the bill on voter privacy and election integrity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.