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Bill

HB 1693

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING DAMAGED OR DEFECTIVE BALLOTS; AND TO ALLOW THE STATE BOARD OF ELECTION COMMISSIONERS TO PROMULGATE RULES REGARDING THE DUPLICATION OF DAMAGED OR DEFECTIVE BALLOTS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kim Hammer and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1693 ensures accurate counting of damaged ballots in Arkansas by requiring their duplication, enhancing election integrity and protecting voter rights.

Notification that HB1693 is now Act 458
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1693

Summary of House Bill 1693 (HB 1693)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1693 (HB 1693) aims to amend existing laws concerning damaged or defective ballots in the state of Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to establish clearer procedures for the duplication of such ballots, ensuring that all votes are accurately counted even when ballots are compromised. This legislation empowers the State Board of Election Commissioners to create rules that govern the duplication process, thereby enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.

Key Provisions

HB 1693 introduces several important changes to the handling of damaged or defective ballots:

  1. Duplication Process:

    • If a ballot is deemed damaged or defective and cannot be counted by electronic devices, election officials are required to create a true duplicate of the ballot.
    • The duplication must occur in the presence of another election official and designated poll watchers.
    • The duplicated ballot must:
      • Reproduce the voter's selections on a ballot of the same style.
      • Be marked with the word "duplicate."
      • Substitute the original damaged ballot in the counting process.
      • Be labeled with a unique serial number that matches the original ballot.

  2. Storage and Reporting:

    • Original damaged ballots must be securely stored and counted in the same manner as other ballots.
    • Election officials must maintain a recorded count of damaged ballots for duplication and report this to the county board of election commissioners.

  3. Central Counting Facility:

    • Duplicated ballots counted at a central facility must be processed simultaneously with non-defective ballots.

  4. Election Night Reporting:

    • The county board of election commissioners is required to declare preliminary and unofficial election results within 24 hours after polls close, including details on outstanding ballots and those requiring duplication.

  5. Rule Promulgation:

    • The State Board of Election Commissioners is authorized to create necessary rules regarding the duplication of damaged or defective ballots.

Affected Parties

This bill affects:
- Election Officials: They will have new responsibilities and procedures to follow regarding ballot duplication.
- Voters: Ensures that their votes are counted even if their original ballots are damaged.
- County Boards of Election Commissioners: They will need to adapt to new reporting requirements and procedures for managing damaged ballots.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: March 5, 2025
  • Passed: March 31, 2025
  • Enrolled and Transmitted to Governor: April 1, 2025
  • Act Status: HB 1693 is now designated as Act 458 as of April 3, 2025.

Conclusion

HB 1693 represents a significant step towards improving the electoral process in Arkansas by ensuring that damaged or defective ballots are handled with care and precision. By allowing for the duplication of such ballots and establishing clear procedures, the bill aims to enhance voter confidence in the integrity of election outcomes.

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

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