Georgia House Bill HB1108

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/26

Caption

Elections; state-wide uniform system of voting equipment; revise provisions

Impact

The implementation of HB1108 will standardize the voting process across counties in Georgia, mandating that all elections—federal, state, and county—use the same equipment. This is expected to enhance the reliability and integrity of the electoral process by minimizing potential discrepancies in ballot handling and counting. The new system will also require counties to develop sufficient polling places equipped for this equipment, ensuring all counties can meet the required standards upon introduction.

Summary

House Bill 1108 seeks to revise the provisions related to the statewide uniform system of voting equipment in Georgia. Specifically, the bill transfers the responsibility for the certification and selection of voting equipment from the Secretary of State to the State Election Board. The emphasis of the bill is on using hand marked and hand counted paper ballots, while also making provisions for ballot marking devices to assist voters unable to use hand marked ballots, ensuring accessibility in municipal elections.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding HB1108 is the potential costs associated with transitioning to the new voting system, alongside the responsibility placed on counties to ensure compliance with these new requirements. Moreover, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of such electronic voting systems and the security of the newly proposed equipment. Advocates argue that this bill will bolster voter confidence in the election process, while opponents worry about the feasibility and execution of the new standards, fearing disenfranchisement of voters if not properly implemented.