Senate advances bill authorizing tribal outreach and a model voting portal for military, overseas and disabled voters

Senators approved Second Substitute Senate Bill 6,035, a measure "relating to ensuring access to voting services for military overseas, Native American and disabled" voters. The bill requires county auditors to meet with federally recognized tribes and directs the Secretary of State to consult with tribes every two years and to assess equipment, supplies and outreach needs. The secretary's office is also authorized — but not required — to develop a model online voting portal and to consult with governmental cybersecurity experts and the military on security design; the sponsor said a model would be developed by 2031.

Sponsor Senator Kaufman described the measure as "a good civic engagement bill" designed to increase outreach, participation and education among tribal communities, military voters and people with disabilities. Kaufman said the portal authorization includes multiple security safeguards and that the bill does not force the Secretary of State to deploy an online voting system.

Opponents raised security concerns about authorizing work on an online portal. Senator Wilson said, "I just don't think it's ready for prime time tonight in the bill as it's presented," and other senators warned that moving toward electronic portals could undermine trust if security and paper-audit safeguards are insufficient. Senator Christian cited possible future risks from quantum computing and urged a no vote.

The secretary called the roll for final passage. The presiding officer announced a constitutional majority and declared Second Substitute Senate Bill 6,035 passed.