Virginia House Bill HB1566

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/18/24
• Refer: 12/18/24

Caption

Elections; absentee ballot security measures; watermark.

Impact

The introduction of security measures, such as the mandated watermark, is expected to amend the existing Code of Virginia by adding new requirements for how absentee ballots are printed and identified. By implementing such checks, the state aims to mitigate concerns surrounding the integrity of absentee ballots, which have been raised in previous election cycles. This change highlights a broader initiative toward securing election practices and reinforcing safeguards that protect the electoral process.

Summary

House Bill 1566 introduces new provisions for absentee ballots in Virginia, mandating that any ballot mailed to voters be printed on security paper featuring a visible watermark. This watermark serves to identify the ballot as an official document while simultaneously preserving the secrecy of the vote. The intent behind this legislation is to enhance the security measures associated with absentee voting in order to prevent potential election fraud and to bolster public confidence in the electoral process.

Contention

Notably, while the bill enjoys support from lawmakers concerned about election integrity, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation of these measures. Critics might argue that adding requirements for absentee ballots could complicate the voting process for those who rely on them, especially among populations that are vulnerable or face barriers to voting. Discussions on the balance between security and accessibility to the voting process are likely to arise as the bill moves forward.