Nevada Senate Bill SB484

Nevada 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/11/23
• Refer: 5/11/23
• Report Pass: 5/27/23
• Engrossed: 5/30/23
• Refer: 5/30/23
• Report Pass: 6/1/23
• Enrolled: 6/8/23
• Chaptered: 6/12/23
• Passed: 6/12/23

Caption

Makes appropriations to and authorizes the expenditure of money by the Office of the Secretary of State for the costs of certain audits, voter education materials and outreach, signature verification services and certain systems. (BDR S-1120)

Note

SB484 passed with unanimous support in the Assembly, demonstrating a bipartisan commitment to addressing election-related concerns. The bill's final passage on June 4, 2023, underscored a collective recognition of the importance of both reinforcing the electoral framework and fostering public confidence in electoral outcomes.

Impact

The introduction of SB484 is positioned as a response to the growing need for ensuring election integrity and improving voter trust in the electoral process. By facilitating risk-limiting audits and enhancing voter education efforts, the state aims to bolster transparency and accountability in elections. These changes are expected to lead to a more informed electorate while also improving the efficiency of how elections are managed statewide. The allocated funding reflects a commitment to prioritize these issues as essential components of the electoral process in Nevada.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 484 (SB484) is a legislative measure aimed at enhancing the integrity of elections in Nevada through a series of financial appropriations intended for the Office of the Secretary of State. The bill appropriates funds from the State General Fund to implement and support risk-limiting audits of election results, develop voter education materials, provide outreach, and establish a mail ballot tracking and notification system. Additionally, it aims to create a statewide top-down voter registration database and an election management system, earmarking significant resources for these initiatives.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB484 may arise from the allocation of substantial funds from the State General Fund for these measures. Critics could argue that while enhancing election security is vital, such significant appropriations should also consider other pressing state issues, like education or healthcare. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the proposed systems, especially regarding tracking mail ballots and conducting audits, will be scrutinized, raising questions about implementation, oversight, and the potential for bureaucratic delays.