Elections; creating the Election Notary Accountability Act; requiring notary to submit copy of receipt book to county election board. Effective date.
If enacted, SB1820 will amend existing laws related to election oversight by imposing stricter regulations on notaries public. Those who fail to comply with the requirement of submitting their receipt book within the stipulate time frame could face misdemeanor charges and fines up to $500 per violation. Furthermore, notaries found to have intentionally provided false information in relation to their notarizations would be subject to prosecution for election fraud, which adds a significant layer of accountability.
Senate Bill 1820, also known as the Election Notary Accountability Act, was introduced to enhance the accountability of notaries public involved in the election process in Oklahoma. Under this legislation, notaries are required to submit a copy of their receipt book to the county election board within thirty days after an election. This initiative is aimed at ensuring transparency and verification of the number of ballots notarized, thereby strengthening the integrity of the electoral process.
The bill may elicit debates concerning the administrative burden it places on notaries public, especially regarding the record-keeping and submission requirements. It could also raise questions about the potential implications for the notary profession and their role in the electoral process. Proponents of the bill argue that enhanced accountability is essential to protect the integrity of elections, while critics may argue that it could deter individuals from serving as notaries due to the risks of penalties and increased scrutiny.