Bill > SB0194

This bill makes several changes to election laws, including clarifying that if an election deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, it will be extended to the next business day, with exceptions for certain redistricting commission chapters, and it prohibits clerks from altering election procedures to favor or discriminate against candidates or ballot measures. It also requires the Lieutenant Governor to create and maintain a written plan to avoid conflicts of interest related to their official duties and potential candidacy, and establishes a new crime for "electronic communications abuse of elections or elected office" for those who misuse election-related information to threaten, deceive, or influence individuals involved in elections. The bill also revises penalties for election law violations, including making violations of the new electronic communication abuse law a class A misdemeanor or a third-degree felony for repeat offenses, and modifies the requirements for valid voter identification for mail-in ballots, with stricter rules taking effect in 2029. Additionally, it updates ballot formatting requirements, including changes to how election officials' names and titles appear on ballots and return envelopes, and mandates that incumbent county clerks running for reelection must contract with another county clerk for certain election-related services. Finally, the bill includes provisions regarding the personal use of campaign funds, allowing for expenditures related to candidate or officeholder security, and sets an effective date of May 6, 2026, with a repeal date for the extended deadline provision on May 5, 2027.

Government Affairs

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/SB0194.html