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Bill

HD 3674

An Act relative to election ballots

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Rich Haggerty

Standardizes official ballots to match those designated in Section 44, Chapter 54, reducing confusion for clerks and printers; takes effect immediately.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 3674

Summary: An Act relative to election ballots (House Docket No. 3674)

Basic information

  • Bill number: HD 3674
  • Title: An Act relative to election ballots
  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • Sponsor: Representative Richard M. Haggerty (Woburn)
  • Status: Proposed bill (as filed in the 2025-2026 General Court)
  • Context: Similar matter previously filed in the 2023-2024 session (House No. 691)

Purpose and intent

The bill is a housekeeping measure aimed at standardizing the definition of “official ballots” within the Massachusetts General Laws. By aligning references to “official ballots” across certain provisions with the official ballots designated in section 44 of chapter 54, the bill seeks to reduce ambiguity and ensure consistency in election administration.

Key provisions

  • Section 1: Amends Section 25B of chapter 54 by removing current language in paragraph (h)(1) and substituting:
    • “Official ballots, identical in all respects to the official ballots designated in section 44 of chapter 54 of the General Laws.”
  • Section 2: Amends Section 87 of chapter 54 by removing current language in paragraph (a) and substituting the same standard:
    • “Official ballots, identical in all respects to the official ballots designated in section 44 of chapter 54 of the General Laws.”
  • Section 3: Provides that the Act takes effect upon its passage.

Who would be affected

  • Election officials and municipal clerks who manage ballot designations and printing
  • Vendors and printers providing official ballots
  • Election administrators who reference official ballots in procedures under Chapter 54

Potential impact

  • Administrative consistency: Ensures that “official ballots” referenced in Sections 25B and 87 align with the ballots described in Section 44, reducing potential confusion across election processes.
  • Printing and procurement: Ballot design and printing standards would be harmonized with Section 44 designations.
  • Voter impact: Likely minimal direct impact on voters, but could streamline procedures and reduce ballot-related errors for election staff.

Practical and timeline notes

  • Effective date: Immediate upon passage (no transition period specified).
  • Legislative context: Builds on prior similar efforts (House No. 691 in 2023-2024) to clarify ballot terminology within election law.

This summary presents the bill’s core aim: to standardize what constitutes an “official ballot” by tying it to the designation in Section 44 of Chapter 54, thereby promoting consistency in Massachusetts election administration.

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

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