Saying it will maintain election integrity, Arizona's Gov. Doug Ducey signed legislation (HB2023) to make felons out of those who collect the ballots of others to bring them to the polls.
It will take effect later this year and will allow judges to impose a presumptive one-year prison term and potential $150,000 fine for the current practice by civic and political groups of going out to see if people remembered to return the early ballots they had requested by mail.
Ducey’s signature came just hours after the measure gained final Senate approval on a party-line vote. And it came moments after State Republican Party Chairman issued a statement saying the change “restores the public’s respect for a process that had potentially dangerous implications and provided too much opportunity for fraud and tampering with an election.”
The Governor’s own prepared comment echoed that sentiment. “This bill ensures a secure chain of custody between the voter and the ballot box,” Ducey said. “We join 18 other states in this common-sense approach to maintaining the integrity of our elections.”
There are some exceptions to the penalties in HB2023. They would not apply to family members, those living in the same household, or certain caregivers who provide assistance to voters in various institutions.
CLICK HERE for more information about the bill.
NYC Wins When Everyone Can Vote! Michael H. Drucker
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