Robert Hamm

I understand that this bill requires voters provide a color copy of their photo identification when they cast an absentee ballot, as well as having their absentee ballot application notarized. And further, it adds provisions that absentee ballot applications that do not have a notarized signature or color copy of ID can be cured by the applicant visiting the clerks office in person. Why does it matter: With a legislature that supposedly values freedom of access - this adds further limitations and hurdles for people who want or need to apply for absentee ballots. As I am given to understand, at this time, absentee ballot applications must be signed by the voter and anyone who assists them with completing the application. By requiring an additional step of having the application notarized, voters will have a more difficult time completing this form – resulting in their application being rejected, late, or not completed at all. This falls especially hard upon the countless seniors and voters with disabilities who, of necessity, vote via absentee ballot because they are unable to vote in person on election day. These same voters who may not have transportation or the ability to independently travel are most likely to be affected by needing to find a notary and make a color copy of an ID. Further, both notarization and color copies have monetary costs – this bill would add those costs and burden to voting absentee. Additionally, if one considers that, at this time, absentee ballots must have a signed affidavit from the voter and anyone who assisted the voter in completing their ballot. Those are signed under penalty of perjury, and have serious consequences for falsifying, then this bill would apply the step of getting those ballots notarized – a process that can cost more money and require travel and additional steps. It make no sense to require ballots be notarized or signed by another authorized official. This will most directly impact voters with disabilities and seniors who may already be voting absentee because they aren’t able to easily travel to vote in person. In this case especially, finding and arranging a notary is a significant burden that may result in voters not being able to exercise their right to vote. This legislation flies in the face of a a state that supposedly values freedom! It flies in the face of libertarian values.