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Bill

H 95

ELECTIONS – Amends existing law to require a unique alphanumeric identifier to be printed on each election ballot.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

Implements a unique alphanumeric identifier on each optical scan ballot (and stamping on other ballots) to prevent duplication and curb election fraud.

Reported Printed and Referred to State Affairs
#elections #secretaryofstate #votingandvoters
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 95

Idaho House Bill 95 (H 95) – Summary

Overview

H 95 proposes to amend Idaho’s official election ballot identification requirements, adding a unique alphanumeric identifier printed on each ballot (where optical scan ballots are used) and clarifying identification for both optical scan and paper ballots. The bill aims to prevent duplication of official ballots and reduce opportunities for election fraud. It was introduced January 30, 2025, and has been reported printed and referred to State Affairs with an emergency clause.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Section 34-901, Idaho Code to revise official election ballot identification.
  • Optical scan ballots (counties using optical scan systems):
    • Require that the official election ballot identification be printed on each ballot.
    • Require a unique alphanumeric identifier printed on each ballot to prevent duplication.
  • Paper or other ballots: Counties must provide an official election stamp of the board-designated character or device. If the stamp is lost, destroyed, or unavailable on election day, the distributing clerk must:
    • Initial each ballot and write “stamped” in the appropriate place.
  • General labeling: Each ballot must show the date and year of the election and the words “Official Election Ballot.”

Effective Date and Emergency Clause

  • The act declares an emergency and provides an effective date of July 1, 2025. In practical terms, the provisions take full effect on or after that date.

Fiscal Impact

  • The fiscal note states the amendment will have no impact on the general fund, any other state fund, or local government resources.

Who Is Affected

  • County clerks and other election officials who issue ballots (particularly counties using optical scan systems).
  • Voters receiving official ballots, as ballots will include a unique alphanumeric identifier and standard official markings.
  • Any entities involved in ballot printing and stamping processes.

Status and Timeline

  • Introduced: January 30, 2025.
  • Legislative Action: Reported Printed and Referred to State Affairs on January 31, 2025.
  • Classified as a “bill” under Elections, Secretary of State, VOTING AND VOTERS.
  • Part of the 2025 Idaho legislative session (Sixty-eighth Legislature, First Regular Session).

Practical Implications

  • Printing and printing workflows for optical scan ballots will need to incorporate a persistent unique identifier on every ballot.
  • Paper ballot workflows will require the official stamp, with contingency procedures if the stamp is unavailable (initials and marking “stamped”).
  • Administrative processes may include maintaining records of the unique identifiers for ballot integrity and auditing purposes.

If you’d like, I can provide a comparison note with existing 34-901 language or draft a one-page briefing for election officials.

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

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