House lawmakers are considering two bills that focus on the voting process. One bill would require county auditors and all election workers to count ballots until the count is completed.
Representative Drew Dennert is the prime sponsor of the bill. He says the proposal maintains electoral integrity.
“The main issue brought to light in the 2020 election is that we have left any room for any person to have even a shred of doubt of the reliability of our electoral process.”
No one testified against the measure.
Another bill prohibits the secretary of state from mailing absentee ballot applications unless the voter requests it.
Secretary of State Steve Barnett opposes the proposal. He says the bill limits the state’s response to situations like the coronavirus pandemic. The state sent absentee ballot applications to all registered South Dakota voters last year.
“As you were all well aware, many circumstances led to this decision including the potential shortage of election workers in polling locations, not to mention public health risks.”
Both House bills passed out of committee. They now move to the House floor.