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Bill

Bill

SB 216

AN ACT relating to elections.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Nemes

SB 216 proposes changes to Kentucky election administration and rules, affecting voting procedures, eligibility, and election oversight.

to Committee on Committees (S)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 216

Bill Overview

  • Jurisdiction: Kentucky
  • Session: 2026 Regular Session (2026RS)
  • Bill: SB 216
  • Title: AN ACT relating to elections
  • Status: Introduced in Senate and referred to Committee on Committees (as of 2026-02-19)

Purpose and Intent

SB 216 appears to be a general elections measure intended to modify or add provisions related to the administration, procedures, or standards of Kentucky elections. The specific text of the bill is not provided here, but the title suggests a focus on election-related rules and governance. The action history shows introduction in the Senate on February 19, 2026, and referral to the Committee on Committees, indicating the bill is at an early stage of consideration.

Key Provisions (anticipated areas to be clarified in the bill)

While the exact language is not available in this summary, bills with the title “relating to elections” commonly address one or more of the following areas:

  • Voter registration and eligibility
  • Voting methods (in-person, mail-in, absentee, or early voting)
  • Ballot design, counting, and certification procedures
  • Election administration and oversight (roles of state and local election officials)
  • Campaign finance and anti-corruption provisions
  • Voter accessibility and accommodations
  • Election security and audit requirements
  • Penalties for violations and enforcement mechanisms
  • Timelines for filing, reporting, and certification of results

Who Would Be Affected

  • Voters: if provisions alter registration, eligibility, voting access, or ballot procedures.
  • Local and state election officials: changes to administration, timelines, auditing, or certification processes.
  • Political campaigns and committees: potential changes to reporting, compliance, and funding disclosures.
  • Voter advocacy groups and non-profits: impact on voter access and information campaigns.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced: February 19, 2026 (Senate)
  • Referral: Committee on Committees (S)
  • Next steps: The bill would typically move through committee hearings, potential amendments, and then floor consideration in the Senate, followed by potential action in the House and any conference committee if amendments occur. Final passage would lead to the governor’s consideration and potential signature or veto.

Potential Impacts to Watch

  • If the bill changes voter eligibility or authentication processes, it could affect turnout and participation.
  • Changes to early voting, mail-in ballots, or voter ID requirements could impact accessibility and administration costs.
  • New reporting, auditing, or certification requirements could influence timelines and resource needs for election offices.
  • Enforcement and penalties could affect compliance dynamics among local officials and campaigns.

Notes

  • The available information here is limited to the bill’s title, session, jurisdiction, and initial legislative action. For a precise understanding of SB 216’s provisions, text of the bill, fiscal impact, and any amendments, the official Kentucky General Assembly bill page or the bill’s reading file should be consulted once released.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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