Bill > SB4

This bill establishes an Election Integrity Unit within the Ohio Secretary of State's office with significant new powers and responsibilities for investigating election-related issues. The unit will be authorized to independently investigate allegations of election fraud and voter suppression, allow public submissions of such allegations, and refer these allegations to prosecutors or law enforcement agencies. The unit must prepare an annual detailed report to the governor and state legislature that includes comprehensive data about received and investigated allegations, including their nature, location, referral status, and current investigation progress. The bill grants the unit substantial investigative powers, including the ability to administer oaths, issue subpoenas, summon witnesses, and compel evidence production. Importantly, the bill creates a structured process for following up on potential election law violations, requiring prosecuting attorneys to either prosecute referred cases within one year or provide a written explanation for declining to do so. If local prosecutors do not act, the Election Integrity Unit can then refer the matter to the state Attorney General for further investigation or prosecution. This legislation represents a significant expansion of election oversight mechanisms at the state level, with the goal of enhancing election integrity through proactive investigation and enforcement.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb4