Bill > HB1004

This bill comprehensively amends Utah's election laws to enhance election record management, transparency, and procedural requirements. The bill introduces several key provisions, including mandating the creation of an election results database with specific data requirements for each counted ballot, establishing more detailed chain of custody procedures for ballots, and modifying rules around ballot drop boxes, video surveillance, and public access to election information. The legislation requires voting equipment to generate an election results database containing detailed information about ballots, such as voter selections, ballot identifiers, and batch information. It also specifies stricter protocols for handling ballot drop boxes, including 24-hour video surveillance with limited access to recordings. Additionally, the bill changes requirements for publishing election results, mandates more comprehensive ballot reconciliation processes, and updates record retention guidelines for election materials. The changes aim to increase election transparency, improve record-keeping, and provide more detailed tracking of ballots throughout the election process. The bill is set to take effect on December 6, 2025, unless approved by a two-thirds majority in the legislature, in which case it would take effect immediately upon governor's approval.

https://le.utah.gov/~2025S1/bills/static/HB1004.html