This 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, while introducing new definitions such as "hand count voting system." The legislation outlines specific procedures for hand counting, post-election audits, and the testing of voting systems, ensuring that all systems are not connected to the internet. Additionally, it increases the number of judges for absentee ballot counting boards and requires all election officials and observers to take an oath to uphold election integrity.

Key amendments include the prohibition of electronic pollbooks during elections, although county clerks can still use electronic systems for preparing pollbooks. The bill allows for the counting of misspelled or abbreviated write-in votes if the intent is clear, and it updates terminology from "poll watchers" to "election observers." It also establishes stricter regulations for ballot box handling and mandates that hand-counted paper ballots be used for bond elections. The changes aim to enhance the transparency, security, and accessibility of the electoral process in Wyoming, with an effective date of 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