SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5631
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 2, 2010
Title: An act relating to absentee ballots.
Brief Description: Counting absentee ballots.
Sponsors: Senators Becker and Swecker; by request of Secretary of State.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/01/10, 2/02/10 [DPF].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)
Background: County auditors may begin opening and processing absentee ballots as soon as the ballots are received. Tabulation of ballots may not begin until after 8 p.m. on election day. Returned absentee ballots must be placed in secure storage until tabulation begins.
Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.
Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute): Tabulation of absentee ballots may begin at 8 a.m. on the Monday immediately before the day of the primary or election. Results must be kept secret until after 8 p.m. on the day of the election.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: In a high volume election year this bill will come in handy. This bill only addresses when tabulations can begin. In counties that use an optical scan, this bill will be very helpful.
OTHER: Don't like the part of the original bill that required bills to be in by election day but the substitute addresses that and we like the bill as reflected in the sub.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Katie Blinn, Secretary of State.
OTHER: James McMahan, County Auditor.