Revises provisions relating to elections. (BDR 24-197)
The proposed legislation aims to strengthen the reliability and integrity of election processes by mandating strict compliance with duties tied to election management. Its inclusion of penalties seeks to deter neglect and ensure timely execution of election-related functions. By centralizing control over the approval of vendors and voting technologies with the Secretary of State, the bill could enhance uniformity in electoral practices across the state, potentially increasing public confidence in election outcomes.
Senate Bill 100, introduced by Senator Daly, seeks to revise various provisions related to elections in the state. The bill establishes requirements for public officers charged with election duties to ensure they perform their responsibilities in a timely manner. If a public officer fails to meet these deadlines, they can be held criminally accountable, facing penalties that include fines and potential felony charges, which can also result in the forfeiture of their position. Additionally, the bill requires that any changes to mechanical voting systems or the vendors of such systems must receive prior approval from the Secretary of State.
Opponents of SB100 may express concerns regarding the implications of establishing severe penalties for public officers, fearing it could lead to undue pressure and deter qualified individuals from serving in election-related roles. Furthermore, the added bureaucratic layer concerning the approval of voting technology might affect the timely implementation of necessary upgrades, ultimately impacting the efficiency of election administration. Proponents will likely argue that these measures are essential in safeguarding voter rights and ensuring responsible election management.