WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 86

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 14 AND TITLE 15 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO RECOUNTS OF BALLOTS IN ELECTIONS.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 3 co-sponsors

HB 86 modifies Delaware ballot recount procedures in election code to adjust how recounts are initiated, conducted, or certified in elections.

Assigned to Elections & Government Affairs Committee in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 86

Legislative bill overview

HB 86 amends Delaware's election code (Titles 14 and 15) to modify procedures for recounting ballots in elections. The bill passed the House with strong bipartisan support (37-3) and is currently pending Senate review in the Elections & Government Affairs Committee. The specific procedural changes relate to how recounts are initiated, conducted, or certified in Delaware elections.

Why is this important

Recount procedures directly affect election integrity and public confidence in results, particularly in close contests. Clear, efficient recount rules ensure accuracy while preventing frivolous challenges and unnecessary delays that could undermine election administration and candidate certification timelines.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of recount triggers – Whether the bill lowers or raises the threshold for automatic recounts, potentially affecting how often elections are subject to recounts
  • Cost allocation – Who bears the financial burden of recounts (candidates, counties, or taxpayers) and whether this creates barriers to legitimate recount requests
  • Timeline and certification impacts – Whether new procedures accelerate or delay election certification, affecting when winners take office and campaign finance reporting deadlines

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

Sign in to ask a question.