AR SB250

Paper ballots must be compatible with electronic vote tabulation devices selected by the Secretary of State, and counties using paper ballots are responsible for all associated costs and compliance with disability access requirements under federal law.

Paper ballots must be marked using permanent ink and run through an electronic vote tabulation device before any hand count is conducted.

Ballot counting must be completed within 24 hours of polls closing with no significant breaks, and if a poll worker becomes incapacitated, remaining workers must continue the count with at least one additional worker available.

County election boards must declare preliminary and unofficial results no later than 24 hours after polls close, including counts of outstanding absentee and provisional ballots, and immediately transmit results by precinct to the Secretary of State.

The act is declared an emergency effective immediately upon governor approval to establish adequate guidelines ensuring paper ballot elections are safe, secure, and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.