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Bill

S 1085

RECREATIONAL FEES – Amends existing law to revise fee provisions regarding recreational vehicles and to establish provisions regarding an off-highway vehicle law enforcement program.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

Bill S 1085 protects voters by banning deceptive practices and voter suppression, increasing penalties for violations to ensure fair and transparent elections.

Reported Printed; referred to Resources & Environment
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 1085

Summary of Bill S 1085

Title: Prohibits Deceptive Practices and the Suppression of Voters, and Increases Penalties for Violations of the Elective Franchise

Bill Number: S 1085
Status: Referred to Election Law
Introduced: January 08, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1085 aims to enhance the integrity of the electoral process by prohibiting deceptive practices that may mislead voters and suppress voter participation. The legislation seeks to strengthen protections for voters and ensure that all eligible individuals can exercise their right to vote without intimidation or misinformation.

Key Provisions

  1. Prohibition of Deceptive Practices:

    • The bill explicitly bans any actions or communications that could mislead voters regarding the voting process, including misinformation about polling locations, voting eligibility, and voting methods.
  2. Voter Suppression Measures:

    • It addresses tactics that may suppress voter turnout, such as intimidation at polling places or the dissemination of false information aimed at discouraging individuals from voting.
  3. Increased Penalties:

    • The bill proposes to increase penalties for individuals or organizations found guilty of engaging in deceptive practices or voter suppression. Specific penalties may include fines and potential imprisonment, although exact amounts and terms will be defined in the legislative text.
  4. Enforcement Mechanisms:

    • The legislation outlines procedures for reporting violations and the responsibilities of election officials to investigate claims of deceptive practices and voter suppression.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Voters: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are voters, particularly those from marginalized communities who may be disproportionately affected by deceptive practices and voter suppression.
  • Election Officials: The bill places additional responsibilities on election officials to monitor and enforce compliance with the new regulations.
  • Political Organizations and Campaigns: Groups engaging in voter outreach and mobilization efforts will need to ensure their practices align with the new prohibitions to avoid penalties.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 08, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Elections Committee.
  • January 13, 2025:
    • Committee discharged and committed to Rules.
    • Ordered to third reading (Calendar 7).
    • Passed the Senate.
    • Delivered to the Assembly and referred to Election Law.

Related Bills

This bill is part of a broader legislative effort to protect voting rights and is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- S 2352
- S 676
- S 1009
- S 2554
- S 3932
- S 2952
- S 5758
- S 1032
- S 263
- A 3412 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 1085 represents a significant step towards safeguarding the electoral process by addressing deceptive practices and voter suppression. By increasing penalties for violations, the bill aims to deter such actions and promote a fair and transparent voting environment. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for voters and election integrity will be closely monitored.

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

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