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Committee introduces RS 32734 to add ID and extra envelope for absentee ballots
Summary
Representative Mike Moyo introduced RS 32734, which would require additional identifying information to accompany absentee ballots in a nonpublic inner envelope so county clerks can verify voters before ballots are opened.
Representative Mike Moyo introduced RS 32734 on March 21, proposing changes to absentee ballot procedures that would require voters to include additional identifying information inside an inner envelope so county clerks can verify the voter before opening the ballot.
Under the RS as presented, a voter returning an absentee ballot would enclose the marked ballot inside a sealed inner envelope and include identifying information on that inner envelope: a signature, a driver's license or ID number, the last four digits of the voter's Social Security number (if used on registration), and the voter's date of birth. Sponsor Mike Moyo said the change is intended to ensure "whoever sends that absentee ballot in is the person that it's their ballot."
Lawmakers and members questioned practical effects: Representative Alfieri asked whether the change would increase clerks' workload or require earlier processing; Moyo said clerks would still verify information without opening ballots and that the identifying material would remain out of public view. Representative Keeley and others asked for data on how many absentee ballots are currently rejected or corrected; the sponsor and other members said those numbers were not available at the hearing.
Representative Barbieri expressed privacy concerns about adding Social Security number data; the sponsor and other members clarified the bill would require only the last four digits of the Social Security number, not a full SSN. Multiple members urged further vetting of implementation details and clerks' procedures. Representative Barbieri withdrew a substitute motion to limit action after discussion, but the committee ultimately introduced RS 32734 and sent it to the second-reading calendar.
Votes at a glance: the committee voted to introduce RS 32734 and send it to the second-reading calendar; the motion carried on a voice vote after debate and a unanimous-consent procedural exchange.
Ending: RS 32734 was introduced; sponsors and several members said the secretary of state and county clerks should continue detailed work on implementation and security of data handling before further advancement.
