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 emphasizes the importance of maintaining voter confidentiality in accordance with the state constitution.
Additionally, the bill introduces various anti-fraud measures that county clerks must use for ballots, including the assignment of unique identifiers such as barcodes, the use of watermarked paper, holograms, and security paper. It also requires that ballots issued for hand counting be stamped with the official designation and election date. The clerk is responsible for maintaining documentation of the security measures and the chain of custody for all ballots. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, due to an emergency declaration.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 34-901