The Georgia state legislature has advanced a significant piece of legislation, SB 189, which aims to overhaul the state’s election rules. This new initiative, set to influence the state’s electoral process, has spurred spirited debates and incited criticism from various quarters, notably from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
A core aspect of the proposed law involves the conditions under which presidential candidates can appear on the state ballot. According to the legislation, these candidates can secure a spot on the ballot if their political party “has obtained ballot access in no fewer than 20 states or territories for the office of presidential elector.” This measure is believed to potentially extend the opportunity to independent candidates and not merely those from the two major parties – Democrat and Republican.
In addition, the proposal establishes a framework for challenging voter eligibility. Probable cause is defined as an instance where an elector is deceased, voting in a different jurisdiction, claiming a homestead exemption in a different jurisdiction or is registered at a non-residential address. This is only applicable when confirmed by a government office, database, or website.
Critics argue that the bill’s provisions could undermine voter rights, citing the requirements for homeless people without a permanent address to re-register to vote using the registrar’s office of the county where they reside as their mailing address.
The most vocal opposition comes from the ACLU, which has firmly denounced the bill, arguing that it eases the process of initiating baseless, mass voter challenges. In line with this criticism, Andrea Young, Executive Director of the ACLU of Georgia, raised concerns about violations of the National Voter Registration Act.
The bill is currently awaiting the decision of Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. If signed, the law could take effect ahead of the 2024 elections. However, if Kemp vetoes the legislation, it will return to the state Senate during the 2025 session where a two-thirds majority of each chamber would be required to override such a veto.
For a more detailed view of this legislative activity in Georgia, please refer to the complete news piece available here.