This bill amends several sections of Nebraska's election laws to enhance the verification of voter citizenship, the handling of ballots, and the observation process during elections. Notably, it requires the Secretary of State to develop a process for verifying voter citizenship using available information, including the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements Program. Additionally, it stipulates that no ballot or envelope shall indicate a voter's political party affiliation on its exterior, and it outlines specific procedures for the delivery and counting of ballots at centralized locations, ensuring that ballots are transported without being removed from their boxes unless observed by poll watchers from different political parties.

The bill also emphasizes the role of watchers during the counting of ballots, allowing them to observe the process and ensuring that they are not excluded unless proper viewing arrangements are made. It mandates that watchers be able to see and hear all actions taken during the counting, including the verification of signatures and the opening of envelopes for early voting. Furthermore, it allows watchers to observe the counting process for early voting, reinforcing transparency in the electoral process. The original sections of the law that are being amended are repealed, streamlining the legal framework governing these election procedures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-202.01, 32-806, 32-1010, 32-1013, 32-1027