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Minutes for SB264 - Committee on Ethics, Elections and Local Government
Short Title
Accommodating voters with disabilities that prevent them from meeting ballot signature requirements.
Minutes Content for Thu, Jan 18, 2018
Chairperson Bowers opened the hearing on SB264. Chuck Reimer, staff revisor, presented a briefing on the bill. After questions by the Committee were addressed, the hearing continued.
Senator Faust-Goudeau testified in support of SB264, stating she represents a large number of people with disabilities. She highlighted an article attached to her testimony from the Wichita Eagle. Senator Faust-Goudeau indicated she understands the Secretary of State's office would like to implement this using rules and regulations, but she believes SB264 should be passed into law. (Attachment 1)
Vignesh Ganapathy testified in support of SB264 stating it would amend existing law to ensure that all registered voters, including those unable to sign for reason of disability, are able to cast a ballot. Mr. Ganapathy indicated the ACLU supports SB264 because current law unlawfully discriminates against disabled voters; and, the bill removes an obstacle to citizen participation and provides stronger protection for the right to vote. (Attachment 2)
After questions by the Committee were addressed, the hearing continued.
Mike Burgess testified in support of SB264. Mr. Burgess indicated they have been working with the Secretary of State's office and believe they have a path to resolve the issue although they also support this bill. Mr. Burgess addressed concerns not encompassed in the bill regarding the affidavit on envelopes used to return advance ballots. Mr. Burgess indicated there needs to be clarity to the issue regardless of whether it's a statutory or regulatory fix. (Attachment 3)
Bryan Caskey testified in support of SB264 stating it is the policy of the state of Kansas and of the Secretary of State's office to ensure that every legally cast ballot must be processed and counted in a manner consistent with the voter's intent. Mr. Caskey indicated they are working on amending current rules and regulations that govern the advance voting process and also to redesign the wording on advance voting ballot envelopes. (Attachment 4)
Questions by the Committee were addressed by Mr. Caskey and Mike Heim, staff revisor.
Patrick Terick testified in support of SB264. Mr. Terick stated that CPRFK built the Timbers which is a housing program for individuals with physical disabilities. Mr. Terick indicated a number of their individuals have difficulty with the advance voting ballot. Mr. Terick indicated some their residents bring their advance voting ballot to the voting place stating the Election officials take time to make sure they sign their ballots. Mr. Terick concluded by offering support to the passage of SB264. (Attachment 5)
Written testimony in support of SB264 was submitted by:
Dr. Elizabeth Clarkson, National Institute for Aviation Research, Wichita State University (Attachment 6)
Jane Byrnes, private citizen (Attachment 7)
Chairperson Bowers closed the hearing on SB264.
