MO HB686

Repeals and replaces six sections of Missouri election law (115.225, 115.237, 115.249, 115.439, 115.449, and 115.453) relating to electronic voting systems, ballot design, and voting procedures.

Permits voters at general elections to vote a straight party ticket by marking a single circle below a party name, or alternatively to vote a split ticket by marking individual candidates.

Allows computerized voting systems with paper audit trail capability and requires independent certification that systems meet Federal Election Commission voting system standards for systems purchased after August 28, 2002.

Establishes specific ballot design requirements including party names in 18-point letters, candidate names in 10-point letters, and squares for marking votes, with separate columns for each party divided by heavy vertical lines.

Defines procedures for counting ballots, including allowance for separating and counting straight party ballots and split party ballots separately in general elections.