SF0113

Requires county clerks to conduct hand count audits of ballots cast in the 2026 primary and general elections and compare results to electronic tabulation.

• Allows judges of election to serve on counting boards for the 2026 elections specifically when conducting hand count audits, notwithstanding the general prohibition against judges serving on counting boards. (W.S. 22-8-102, Sec. 1)
• Requires each county clerk to conduct a hand count audit of approximately five percent of total ballots cast on election day for both the 2026 primary and general elections, comparing hand count results to electronic equipment results. (Sec. 2(a))
• Mandates hand count audits include one federal race and one statewide race selected by the secretary of state, plus all legislative races printed on the ballot, with the secretary of state notifying counties which races to audit by the Wednesday following the election. (Sec. 2(a))
• Permits county canvassing boards to audit additional races beyond those selected by the secretary of state, following the same hand count audit requirements. (Sec. 2(a))
• Requires county canvassing boards to select electronic tabulating machines representing approximately five percent of total ballots cast, whose ballots will be subject to hand count audit and comparison. (Sec. 2(b))
• Establishes that hand count audits must be completed not later than nine days after the county canvass, with audit boards comprising at least three qualified electors and no more than two judges from the same political party. (Sec. 2(b), Sec. 2(c)(i))
• Specifies that audit boards shall tabulate each mark, undervote, or overvote according to electronic tabulating equipment standards and ballot instructions. (Sec. 2(c)(iii))
• Requires county clerks to report any inconsistencies or errors between electronic counts and hand counts to the secretary of state within nine days of county canvass. (Sec. 2(d))
• Requires the secretary of state to report any ballot inconsistencies or counting errors discovered during hand count audits to the joint corporations, elections and political subdivisions interim committee by May 1, 2027.