Juneau -- The Alaska Senate Thursday passed House Bill 163, sponsored by Representative Jeannette James (R-North Pole), which updates current election law to conform with the optical scanning ballot tabulation system.

"HB 163 is designed to make the electoral process more efficient while continuing to maintain the integrity of the process," James said. "The bill also contains some policy changes regarding write-in candidates and the absentee process which will help make the election process more efficient for both the electorate and the Division of Elections."

Write-in candidates

HB 163 forbids the use of stickers by write-in candidates. The State has been advised by the manufacturer of the optical scan ballot tabulation system that stickers could damage the Accu-Vote machines.

Absentee Process

HB 163 streamlines the Absentee by Personal Representative process to allow the personal representative to deliver an application and voting material at one time and then return the voted ballot and material to an election official. Checks and balances to protect the integrity of the electoral process will remain in place.

HB 163 also streamlines the Absentee In-Person Voting Process by allowing voters registered in a house district in which the regional election office has jurisdiction to forego completion of the absentee oath and affidavit envelope. This should significantly reduce the number of absentee ballots requiring review by the Division of Elections.

HB 163 passed the Senate unanimously.

Attachments:

• Sponsor Statement

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