An Act to amend 6.87 (9) of the statutes; Relating to: returning an absentee ballot with an incomplete certificate or with no certificate.
Impact
The implications of SB511 are significant for voters and the electoral process in Wisconsin. By establishing a requirement for clerks to return incomplete ballots, the bill aims to enhance voter participation and ensure that individuals have the chance to correct mistakes that might otherwise disenfranchise them. This change could lead to a more accessible voting process, particularly for those who may not be familiar with the complexities of absentee voting or the specifics of ballot certification.
Summary
Senate Bill 511 seeks to amend existing election law related to absentee ballots in Wisconsin. Specifically, it addresses the process by which municipal clerks handle absentee ballots that are returned with incomplete or missing certificates. Currently, clerks have discretion to return such ballots to voters for correction, but under SB511, this process would be mandated. The bill necessitates that if the municipal clerk can do so in a timely manner, they must return the flawed absentee ballot along with a new envelope if required, allowing the voter the opportunity to rectify any defects and return the ballot before the election deadline.
Contention
While the bill has garnered bipartisan support, there may be some contention surrounding the practicality and the administrative burden it imposes on municipal clerks. Critics may argue that mandating the return of incomplete ballots could increase the workload for clerks, especially during high-turnout elections when absentee voting is more prevalent. Advocates for the bill, however, contend that improving access to voting outweighs these concerns. Overall, SB511 reflects an ongoing discussion about the balance between safeguarding the integrity of elections and ensuring that all eligible voters can participate fully.
Applying for and returning absentee ballots; use of central counting locations; election night reporting; court determinations of incompetency and ineligibility to vote; preelection tests of electronic voting equipment, and providing a penalty. (FE)
Applying for and returning absentee ballots; use of central counting locations; election night reporting; court determinations of incompetency and ineligibility to vote; preelection tests of electronic voting equipment, and providing a penalty. (FE)