The bill establishes paper ballots as the default voting method for all in-person elections in Wyoming, while permitting counties to offer electronic ballot marking devices for those who prefer them. It outlines a process for the automatic tabulation of paper ballots and details the procedures for hand counting votes during recounts. Additionally, the legislation mandates proof of United States citizenship for voter registration, revises absentee polling place timings, and adjusts the dates for primary elections and canvassing to facilitate hand counting. Key amendments include a definition of "proof of United States citizenship" and the requirement for voter registration to include this proof.

The bill enhances election recount procedures by allowing losing candidates to request a recount of all votes cast for their office, which can be conducted either by hand or electronically, as chosen by the candidate. It also grants the Secretary of State the authority to mandate recounts for specific federal, statewide, or legislative races, while allowing county clerks discretion in recounting ballot propositions or races. The legislation establishes an election recount account to ensure continuous funding for recount-related costs and modifies the requirements for affidavits requesting recounts. Additionally, it includes an appropriation of $200,000 from the general fund to support this account, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-8-108, 22-16-111
Engrossed: 22-8-108, 22-16-111