Utah Republicans Propose Major Changes to Mail-In Voting and Election Procedures

Utah Republicans have passed a bill to change the mail-in voting system, requiring voters to opt-in for mail-in ballots and provide ID details for ballot returns. This proposal aims to enhance election security but raises concerns about voter access and turnout, especially among marginalized groups. The bill is currently under Senate consideration, with further election reforms also being proposed this legislative session.

Utah Republicans are set to amend the state’s election processes, beginning with universal mail-in voting. A recent bill passed by the GOP-controlled House mandates that voters must now opt-in to receive mail-in ballots rather than receiving them automatically. This adjustment, effective next year, will require voters returning their ballots by mail or utilizing a drop box to provide the last four digits of their driver’s license or state ID number.

The proposed changes significantly alter Utah’s mail-in voting framework, which was among only eight states nationwide to conduct all elections via mail without requiring an opt-in process. “As a conservative state, that is not a list I am proud to be part of,” stated House Speaker Mike Schultz, highlighting the concerns regarding the state’s association with predominantly Democratic states like California and Oregon.

The bill is now under Senate consideration, where its Republican leaders contributed to its design. Senate President Stuart Adams expressed satisfaction with the bill’s current iteration. Initial proposals that compelled voters to present ID in person for mail-in ballot returns were dismissed in favor of a system that balances accessibility and security, according to Senator Mike McKell.

Following President Donald Trump’s allegations of widespread fraud regarding mail-in voting during the 2020 elections, Republican sentiments toward the system have fluctuated. While some uncertainties regarding election security persist, a state audit indicated no significant evidence of fraud, although it noted delays in updating voter rolls to remove deceased individuals.

Democratic leaders, such as House Minority Leader Angela Romero, have criticized the bill, claiming it may confuse voters and potentially lower turnout, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. Current voting regulations require two forms of ID and proof of residence during voter registration, but do not stipulate photo ID requirements for casting ballots.

Opposition to the proposal was notable, with all Democrats and one Republican officially voting against it. Detractors believe that amendments to an operational system could undermine public trust in the electoral process. Despite widespread usage of mail-in ballots among Utah residents, adherence to signature verification remains essential for election integrity.

Governor Spencer Cox maintains confidence in Utah’s election security but has indicated a willingness to reform the mail-in voting system for expedited ballot counting. He asserted, “We have complete integrity in our elections; I think one of the areas where we start to lose trust is when there isn’t a decision on Election Night.”

The new regulations will require ballots to be in county clerks’ possession by 8 p.m. on Election Day, a change from the current allowance of postmarked ballots counted within two weeks after Election Day. Additional proposals this legislative session include delegating election responsibilities from the lieutenant governor to an independent office, eliminating same-day voter registration, and raising the threshold for citizen initiatives, as well as withdrawing from the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC).

The recent actions by Utah Republicans signal significant changes to the state’s election framework, particularly impacting mail-in voting procedures. While aimed at improving election security and efficiency, these changes have elicited concerns about voter confusion and potential turnout declines. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, the implications for both voters and the electoral system are being closely monitored, highlighting the ongoing debate regarding voting access and integrity.

Original Source: apnews.com