The bill amends existing laws regarding the handling of damaged or defective ballots during elections in Arkansas. It introduces a detailed process for duplicating such ballots, which includes the requirement for an election official to reproduce the voter's selections on a new ballot of the same style, label both the original and duplicate ballots appropriately, and ensure they are counted in the same manner as other ballots. Additionally, it mandates that the original damaged ballots be securely stored and that the duplication process occurs simultaneously with the counting of non-defective ballots at central facilities.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the official return of each polling site will include the results from write-in, early, and absentee votes, which must be certified by the election officials responsible for the tabulation. This amendment aims to enhance the integrity and accuracy of the election process by ensuring that all ballots, regardless of their condition, are handled systematically and transparently.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB253 V2 - 3-7-2023 09:50 AM: 7-5-615(d)
SB 253: 7-5-615(d)
Act 460: 7-5-615(d)