In an effort to ensure timely ballot counting and reporting, State Sen. Shelley Hughes (R-Palmer) has introduced a bill that addresses long-standing challenges with delays in election results being available to the public.
Senate Bill 52 introduces key reforms to deadlines and procedures for pre-election ballot distribution by voters and post-election delivery to the division of Elections.
One of the provisions requires that all ballots, including absentee and early voting ballots, be counted by 11:59 p.m. on election day. This replaces previous rules that permitted counting to extend indefinitely beyond election day.
“Establishing this strict deadline ensures that election results are reported promptly, minimizing uncertainty, and enhancing voter confidence in the election process,” Hughes explained in her sponsor statement for the bill.
To address the handling of ballots that may be delayed due to adverse weather or mechanical transportation issues, the bill requires that any delayed ballots be stored in transparent, secured containers that are monitored by video surveillance until they can be delivered as soon as conditions allow.
“This safeguard enhances the security of ballot handling and improves transparency, particularly in remote areas where logistical challenges are more likely to occur,” Hughes noted.
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Importantly, the bill also revises the early voting period, beginning 15 days prior to the election and ending on the Saturday immediately preceding election day. This change provides election officials with time to count early ballots and still meet the deadline requirement of 11:59 p.m. on election night.
“By establishing clear deadlines and secure handling procedures, Senate Bill 52 creates a uniform and efficient framework to allow Alaskans to access election results in a timely fashion will boost voter confidence in our election process,” Hughes stated.
Alaskans will have an opportunity to testify on SB 52 during a public hearing on Tuesday, Feb. 4, in the Senate Affairs Committee. The meeting begins at 3:30 p.m.
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