STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS30009C1 / H0075
This legislation sets specific requirements for the use of absentee ballots. With the increased use of Absentee
ballots—as high as 30% of the vote total in the most recent election—it is important that we specify the reason
and purpose of the absentee ballots. Though the use of absentee ballots has been expanded in recent years,
largely because of the Covid-19 scare, its original intent was to provide access to voters who were physically
unable to vote for reasons beyond their control. Its use was never intended as a convenience, which is what it
has most recently become. Broadening the use of absentee ballots also opens Idaho up to potential voter fraud,
as the Commission on Federal Election Reform declared “absentee ballots remain the largest source of potential
voter fraud,” a concern reiterated by voting equipment manufacturer ES & S.
This legislation addresses those issues by eliminating no-excuse absentee ballots, while preserving the rights
of those unable to vote in person because of reasons beyond their control.
FISCAL NOTE
There will be no impact to the General Fund.
Contact:
Representative Joe Alfieri
Representative Mike Kingsley
(208) 332-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/02/2023, 9:56 AM


Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 34-1001, 34-1002