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Minutes for SB260 - Committee on Ethics, Elections and Local Government
Short Title
Providing that the state pays the cost of a recount requested by a candidate for certain municipal office in certain close elections.
Minutes Content for Thu, Jan 23, 2020
Chairperson Bowers opened the hearing on SB260. Mike Heim, staff revisor, presented a briefing on the bill. After questions by the Committee were addressed, the hearing continued.
Senator Haley testified in support of SB260. Senator Haley stated he is interested in democracy being played out all across the board irrespective of which office is being sought. Senator Haley indicated he brought this bill to see if that equitable opportunity can be provided for those who are running for local office as well as for those who are in state office. Senator Haley addressed questions from Committee members. (Attachment 1)
Amanda Stanley provided neutral testimony for SB260. Ms. Stanley's testimony stated in the most recent election in the five biggest counties, this bill would have allowed for recounts in two races in Sedgwick and one race in Wyandotte. Ms. Stanley indicated the biggest cities are the only ones that would have enough votes in a municipal election to fall under this percentage. Ms. Stanley responded to questions from Committee members. (Attachment 2)
Written testimony in opposition of SB260 was submitted by Rick Piepho, Harvey County Clerk and Election Officer (Attachment 3)
Written neutral testimony for SB260 was submitted by:
Jay Hall, Legislative Policy Director and General Counsel, Kansas Association of Counties (Attachment 4)
Chairperson Bowers closed the hearing on SB260.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:18 a.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for January 28, 2020.
