HB400
Create a permanent absent voter list
Summary
The bill establishes a permanent absent voter list in Ohio, allowing registered voters to opt-in to receive absentee ballots automatically for elections. Voters can request to be placed on this list through various means, including written applications and online voter registration. The bill also outlines the process for removing voters from the list and mandates that boards of elections mail absent voter ballot applications to those on the list before elections.
Rationale
The bill introduces a government-managed voter list, which may conflict with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and individual autonomy in voting processes. However, it does facilitate absentee voting, which aligns with some aspects of voter freedom. The LPO's score reflects a more favorable view of the bill due to its focus on election management and voter access.
Risks and Concerns
- Potential for increased government control over the voting process
- Concerns about privacy and data security of voter information
- Possibility of bureaucratic inefficiencies in managing the voter list