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SB 64

$DHS-LAUREUS SPORT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Seth Lewis and 2 co-sponsors

SB 64 modernizes Alaska's elections by removing voting barriers, enhancing security, ensuring faster results, and increasing access for all eligible voters.

Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 64

Summary of Senate Bill 64 (SB 64)

Overview

Senate Bill 64 (SB 64) is a comprehensive election reform bill introduced in the Alaska State Legislature on February 4, 2025. The bill aims to modernize Alaska's election processes, enhance voter access, and improve the integrity and transparency of elections. It is currently under consideration in the House Finance Committee.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 64 is to ensure that all eligible votes are counted, streamline voter registration processes, and enhance the security of elections in Alaska. The bill addresses various aspects of election administration, including voter registration, absentee voting, and the use of synthetic media in electioneering communications.

Key Provisions

1. Removing Barriers to Voting

  • Witness Signature Requirement: The bill repeals the requirement for a witness signature on absentee by-mail ballots, which has led to the rejection of many valid ballots.
  • Ballot Curing Process: Establishes a system allowing voters to correct mistakes on their ballots that would otherwise lead to rejection.
  • Same-Day Registration: Allows voters to register to vote up to and on Election Day, increasing accessibility for transient populations and young voters.

2. Voter Registration List Cleanup

  • Streamlined Process: Replaces the current two-notice system for removing ineligible voters with a single forwardable notice.
  • Residency Clarification: Clarifies the definition of residency for voting and establishes procedures for voters to cancel their registration.

3. Faster Election Results

  • Preliminary Results: Requires the Division of Elections to begin scanning absentee ballots seven days before the election, allowing for faster reporting of results.
  • Transparency in Counting: Mandates that details of counted ballots be released alongside unofficial results.

4. Banning Deepfakes

  • Synthetic Media Regulation: Prohibits the use of undisclosed deepfakes in election communications, requiring clear identification of manipulated media.

5. Secure and Transparent Elections

  • Cybersecurity Program: Requires the development of a cybersecurity program to protect election records from cyber threats.
  • Ballot Tracking: Implements a tracking system for absentee ballots to enhance voter confidence and ensure ballots are counted.

6. Additional Provisions

  • Postage-Paid Envelopes: Requires absentee ballots to include postage-paid return envelopes.
  • Language Access: Adds tribal identification cards to the list of acceptable forms of ID for voting and registration.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Voters: The bill aims to increase voter participation, particularly among young, low-income, and rural populations.
  • Election Officials: Changes in procedures and requirements will impact how election officials manage voter registration and ballot processing.
  • Political Campaigns: Campaigns will need to adapt to new regulations regarding synthetic media and electioneering communications.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: SB 64 is currently in the House Finance Committee, where it is being reviewed for potential amendments and fiscal implications.
  • Effective Date: If passed, the provisions of SB 64 would take effect in time for the 2026 election cycle.

Conclusion

SB 64 represents a significant overhaul of Alaska's election laws, aiming to enhance accessibility, security, and transparency in the electoral process. By addressing barriers to voting and modernizing election administration, the bill seeks to ensure that all eligible Alaskans can participate in the democratic process.

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

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