The proposed bill mandates the exclusive use of paper ballots for elections in Wyoming, requiring that all ballots be hand-counted. It repeals existing provisions related to electronic voting machines and electronic pollbooks, replacing them with new definitions and procedures focused on hand counting. The bill emphasizes transparency in the post-election ballot audit process by requiring notification to political party representatives and independent candidates regarding the timing and location of audits. Additionally, it establishes penalties for violations and includes provisions for testing hand counting systems and ensuring the presence of election observers.

Key changes in the bill include the deletion of references to "electronic voting systems" and the introduction of "hand count voting systems," reflecting a shift towards manual counting methods. It also specifies that no electronic pollbooks shall be used during elections, although county clerks may prepare pollbooks electronically. The bill outlines procedures for handling spoiled and rejected ballots, allows for counting misspelled or abbreviated write-in votes if intent is clear, and changes terminology from "poll watchers" to "election observers." Stricter regulations regarding ballot boxes are established, defining unlawful interference as a felony, and the county canvassing board's meeting timeline is specified. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-1-102, 22-3-113, 22-6-113, 22-9-121, 22-9-125, 22-10-101, 22-10-111, 22-11-103, 22-11-104, 22-11-107, 22-11-109, 22-12-110, 22-12-113, 22-13-109, 22-13-112, 22-14-105, 22-14-111, 22-26-101, 22-26-104