This bill amends Section 34-901 of the Idaho Code to enhance the identification and security measures for official election ballots. It mandates that all ballots must display the date of the election and the phrase "Official Election Ballot." To ensure the authenticity of ballots, county clerks are required to implement specific anti-fraud measures, which must be tested and verified before each election. The bill also emphasizes the confidentiality of voters' choices in accordance with the state constitution.
Additionally, the bill introduces a range of anti-fraud measures that county clerks must employ, including the assignment of unique identifiers (such as barcodes), the use of watermarked paper, holograms, and security paper. It also stipulates that for counties that hand count votes, ballots must be stamped or printed with the official designation at the time of issuance. The clerk is responsible for maintaining documentation of the security measures and the chain of custody for all ballots. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 34-901