Bill > HB1089

This bill modifies Colorado's mail ballot signature verification process by allowing county clerks and recorders to use a team of two bipartisan election judges to review mail ballot signatures, instead of requiring a single election judge to conduct the verification. Currently, signature verification is done by one election judge who compares the voter's signature on a mail ballot's return envelope with the signature stored in the statewide voter registration system. Under the new bill, if a county clerk chooses, two election judges from different political parties can now conduct this review together. If the judges determine the signatures do not match, they will follow existing procedures, which include sending a notice to the voter and allowing them to confirm or contest the ballot. The bill also authorizes the secretary of state to create rules governing this new team-based signature verification process. The legislation aims to potentially improve the accuracy and consistency of signature verification in mail ballot elections by introducing a collaborative review approach. The bill will take effect after the standard legislative review period, with a potential voter referendum in November 2026 if challenged.

Military Affairs and Security

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1089