LB541 would cause major harm to how Nebraskans vote and how our elections function by removing of no-excuse absentee voting, eliminating online voter registration, and requiring that ballots be hand counted
In an alarming move, the Nebraska Legislature is considering a bill that would be a significant step backwards for Nebraskans’ access to the ballot. The proposed legislation, LB541, includes several provisions that would make voting more difficult and less accessible.
Among the most concerning aspects are the removal of no-excuse absentee voting, the elimination of online voter registration, and the requirement that ballots be hand counted. These changes threaten to undermine the democratic process and disenfranchise countless voters across the state.
The Dangers of LB541
Removal of No-Excuse Absentee Voting
One of the most troubling provisions of LB541 is the removal of no-excuse absentee voting. Currently, Nebraskans can request an absentee ballot without needing to provide a specific reason. This flexibility has been crucial for many voters, hundreds of thousands of Nebraskans vote by mail. In 2024, 40% of votes in Nebraska were cast via mail ballot.
By eliminating no-excuse absentee voting, the bill would force voters across the state to either provide a valid excuse or vote in person, potentially leading to lower voter turnout and increased barriers to participation in the democratic process.
Elimination of Online Voter Registration
Another significant setback in LB541 is the elimination of online voter registration. Online registration has made it easier for many Nebraskans to register to vote, particularly younger voters and those in rural areas. Removing this option would revert the process to paper-based methods, which are not only less efficient but also more prone to errors and delays.
This change could discourage new voters from registering and make it harder for existing voters to update their information, ultimately reducing the number of eligible voters.
Requirement for Hand Counting Ballots
Perhaps the most impractical provision of LB541 is the requirement that 25% of ballots be hand counted. While hand counting can be a useful method for verifying election results, mandating it for every election is both time-consuming and resource intensive.
This requirement could lead to significant delays in election results and increase the likelihood of counting errors. Studies have found that hand counting error rates can be as high as 25%, while machine counting errors are about 0.5%. Additionally, the increased workload on election officials could strain already limited resources, making it more difficult to conduct efficient and accurate elections
The proposed changes in LB541 pose a serious threat to the accessibility and integrity of Nebraska’s voting system. By removing no-excuse absentee voting, eliminating online voter registration, and requiring hand counting of ballots, the bill would create unnecessary obstacles for voters and undermine the democratic process.
LB541 has been scheduled for hearing on March 5th and 1:30 before the Government, Military and Veteran’s Affairs committee.
You can join us that day at the capitol to testify in opposition, or leave a comment on the legislature’s website.
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