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1420XD

Election Recounts (1420XD) - Secretary of State

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill 1420XD enhances Iowa's election recounts by clarifying procedures, improving accountability, and ensuring ballot integrity, benefiting candidates and voters alike.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · 1420XD

Summary of Bill 1420XD: Election Recounts

Purpose and Intent

Bill 1420XD aims to amend existing laws governing the conduct of election recounts in the state of Iowa. The bill seeks to clarify procedures, enhance accountability, and establish penalties related to election recounts. Its intent is to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and provide clear guidelines for candidates and election officials.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments to the Iowa Code, specifically targeting the processes involved in election recounts:

  1. Recount Board Composition:

    • Section 43.56: Modifies the composition of the recount board. It allows candidates requesting a recount to choose one or two designees based on county population. The candidate with the highest votes must also designate a representative, and a third member will be selected from precinct election officials.

  2. Judicial Retention Voting:

    • Section 46.24: Clarifies that judges must receive more affirmative than negative votes to be retained in office. Election judges will publicly canvass votes immediately after polls close.

  3. State Commissioner Authority:

    • Section 47.1: Grants the state commissioner the discretion to call for a recount of any election, thereby enhancing oversight.

  4. Ballot Preservation:

    • Section 50.12: Establishes strict guidelines for the return and preservation of ballots, requiring that they be sealed and stored securely for specified periods (six months for general elections, twenty-two months for federal elections).

  5. Canvassing Procedures:

    • Section 50.21: Details the timing for reconvening election boards and conducting canvasses, ensuring they occur promptly after elections.

  6. Second Canvass Requirement:

    • Section 50.24: Specifies that if a recount is requested, the controlling commissioner must conduct a second canvass within two business days after the recount concludes.

Affected Parties

  • Candidates: The bill directly impacts candidates participating in elections, particularly those who may request recounts.
  • Election Officials: Changes will affect how election officials conduct recounts and canvassing, requiring adherence to new procedures.
  • Voters: The integrity of the electoral process is enhanced, which ultimately benefits voters by ensuring accurate election outcomes.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced on November 18, 2025.
  • Effective Date: The bill includes provisions for its effective date, which will be determined upon passage.

Conclusion

Bill 1420XD represents a significant update to Iowa's election recount procedures, aiming to improve transparency and accountability in the electoral process. By clarifying the roles of candidates and election officials, as well as establishing strict guidelines for ballot preservation and recount procedures, the bill seeks to bolster public confidence in election outcomes.

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

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