This bill amends various sections of Nebraska's election laws with a focus on enhancing voter registration processes and election security. Key changes include the elimination of online voter registration and restrictions on mail-in voter registration, requiring deputy registrars to register voters only if they present valid photographic identification. The bill mandates the development of secure ballot drop-boxes, specifies the definition of "hand count," and establishes strict deadlines for voter registration applications, which must now be completed in person or through designated agents. Additionally, it introduces a covert watermark on official ballots to ensure their legitimacy and outlines the responsibilities of the Secretary of State in supervising elections and training election officials.

Further amendments aim to improve the early voting process by requiring valid photographic identification for early voting requests and introducing a new voter’s oath that includes the reason for early voting eligibility. The bill also establishes stricter regulations for secure ballot drop-boxes, including video surveillance and public access to recordings. It mandates that election officials implement procedures for hand counting a percentage of ballots to verify the accuracy of vote counting devices and streamlines recount procedures for candidates who lose by narrow margins. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the integrity, security, and efficiency of the electoral process in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-101, 32-103, 32-202, 32-203, 32-206, 32-306, 32-307, 32-308, 32-310, 32-311.01, 32-312, 32-312.05, 32-315, 32-320, 32-321, 32-323, 32-325, 32-806, 32-808, 32-902, 32-938, 32-941, 32-942, 32-943, 32-947, 32-950.01, 32-960, 32-1002, 32-1041, 32-1049, 32-1118, 32-1119