The bill amends Iowa's election laws to enhance the procedures for recounting and contesting elections. It mandates that a recount must occur in each precinct where votes were cast for a contested office if a written request is made within a specified timeframe, specifically by the second Wednesday following an election, and if the vote difference is one percent or less. The state commissioner of elections is granted the authority to order recounts for statewide and federal offices, ensuring that recounts are conducted in all relevant precincts. The bill also clarifies bond requirements for candidates requesting a recount, stating that a bond is necessary unless the vote difference is 0.1 percent or less, and it holds the requesting candidate responsible for the bond payment if their committee does not cover it.

Additionally, the bill restructures the contest courts for election disputes, moving from a system where individuals were designated by petitioners and county commissioners to one where five district court judges are appointed by the chief justice of the supreme court. This change aims to streamline the process and ensure impartiality in election contests. The legislation also includes provisions for penalties against election officials who fail to comply with recount regulations, thereby enhancing accountability. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the integrity and efficiency of election recounts and contests in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 50.48, 50.24, 47.1, 58.4, 58.5, 58.7, 60.1, 60.6, 61.1, 61.4, 61.12, 62.1A, 62.20, 62.19