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Bill

CACR 31

relating to ballot reconciliation. Providing that the state adopt certain provisions and penalties relative to the ballot reconciliation process.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Belcher and 6 co-sponsors

New Hampshire bill to constitutionally mandate ballot reconciliation procedures and penalties failed committee review with unanimous "inexpedient" recommendation.

Inexpedient to Legislate: MA VV 03/05/2026 HJ 6 P. 13
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Bill Summary · CACR 31

Legislative bill overview

CACR 31 proposes that New Hampshire adopt constitutional provisions and associated penalties related to ballot reconciliation procedures—the process of verifying that the number of ballots cast matches voting machine totals and official records. The bill was introduced in the 2025-2026 legislative session but received a unanimous "Inexpedient to Legislate" recommendation from the Election Law Committee on February 10, 2026, effectively ending its consideration.

Why is this important

Ballot reconciliation is a critical election integrity safeguard that can detect discrepancies between physical ballots and recorded votes, helping identify potential errors or irregularities. Embedding this process in state constitutional law rather than statute would make it more difficult to change procedures and could establish enforceable penalties for non-compliance, strengthening accountability in election administration.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional vs. statutory approach: Opponents may argue that election procedures are better suited to statutory law (easier to update as technology changes) rather than constitutional amendments (requiring voter approval and difficult revision)
  • Implementation concerns: The bill's specific provisions and penalties are not detailed in available summaries; the committee's unanimous rejection suggests substantive flaws in drafting or approach
  • Existing safeguards: Election officials may have argued current reconciliation practices are adequate, making constitutional-level changes unnecessary

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

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