The bill introduces a comprehensive framework for conducting election recounts in Wyoming, emphasizing the necessity of hand counting votes for certain close races. It empowers the Secretary of State and county clerks to initiate recounts under defined conditions and allows candidates to request hand counts, particularly for the 2026 primary and general elections. Key amendments include a revised definition of "recount" to include both hand counting and electronic processing, an increase in the automatic recount threshold from one percent to two percent in specific instances, and the establishment of an election recount account to fund these activities. The bill also clarifies the financial responsibilities associated with recounts, specifying that costs will be borne by the county if initiated by the county clerk or canvassing board, while the Secretary of State will cover costs for recounts they initiate.

Additionally, the bill mandates that each county clerk perform a hand count audit of ballots cast on election day for the 2026 elections, focusing on one federal and one statewide race chosen by the Secretary of State. It sets forth guidelines for the composition of audit boards and the reporting of discrepancies between electronic and hand counts. The legislation also includes provisions for rulemaking, appropriations for training county clerks and election volunteers, and repeals certain existing statutes related to election processes, ensuring a more transparent and accountable recount procedure in Wyoming.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-1-102, 22-8-102, 22-8-108, 22-14-114, 22-16-109, 22-16-110, 22-16-111, 22-16-113
Engrossed: 22-1-102, 22-2-104, 22-8-101, 22-8-102, 22-8-108, 22-14-114, 22-16-103, 22-16-109, 22-16-110, 22-16-111, 22-16-113, 22-16-118