PHX Reporter

The Arizona House of Representatives has approved HB2703, a measure aimed at enhancing election security and efficiency. The bill, supported by the House Republican Majority, seeks to streamline early voting and ensure timely ballot counting.

Representative Alex Kolodin emphasized the need for reform due to delays caused by late-arriving ballots. "We’re bringing common sense back to the process," he said. Kolodin highlighted that these delays overwhelm election officials and leave voters uncertain about results. The reform intends to expedite ballot processing and prevent incorrect mail-in ballots by requiring address confirmation from voters.

In the 2024 general election, over 260,000 early ballots were returned late in Arizona, leading to processing delays. HB2703 aligns with practices in states like Florida, which have seen improved election efficiency.

Representative Hendrix, who sponsored the legislation, remarked on its significance: "Arizonans deserve an election system that is transparent, secure, and free of unnecessary delays." He believes HB2703 will reinforce electoral integrity.

Key changes proposed by HB2703 include setting a deadline for early ballot returns at 7:00 PM on the Friday before Election Day and allowing counties to conduct on-site tabulation during early voting periods. The bill also mandates address confirmation for mail voters every election cycle in larger counties and every four years in smaller ones.

House Speaker Steve Montenegro underscored the urgency of resolving result delays: "Arizona voters are tired of waiting days—sometimes weeks—for election results." He praised Representatives Kolodin and Hendrix for their efforts in advancing this reform.

HB2703 is part of the House Republican Majority Plan focused on securing elections and government accountability. The bill now awaits consideration by the Senate.

Steve Montenegro serves as Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 29 in West Valley, Goodyear, and Surprise. Follow him on X at @SteveMontenegro.

Information from this article can be found here.