This bill amends various sections of Nebraska's election laws, focusing 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, introduces a definition for "hand count," and specifies that voter registration applications must be completed in person or through designated agents, with strict deadlines for submission. Additionally, it emphasizes the responsibilities of the Secretary of State in supervising elections and ensuring compliance with the Election Act.

Further provisions include the introduction of a covert watermark on official ballots, new requirements for early voting applications, and stricter regulations for secure ballot drop-boxes, which must be monitored by video surveillance. The bill also outlines the handling of provisional ballots, ensuring they are counted only if specific criteria are met, and mandates a hand count of at least twenty-five percent of ballots at each election to verify accuracy. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the integrity, security, and efficiency of the voting process in Nebraska while streamlining election procedures.

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