HB 1661 – Election integrity

HB 1661 strengthens election integrity by ensuring polling places are properly stocked with ballots, so voters are not turned away due to bureaucratic incompetence. By requiring local election officials to provide more ballots than were used in prior elections, the bill adds a common-sense safeguard against ballot shortages. It introduces real consequences for officials who deliberately fail to meet this basic duty, helping prevent future election-day crises. Additionally, the bill raises penalties for obstructing election supply logistics and leaking sensitive information before polls close—helping deter bad actors. Its targeted enforcement approach avoids bloating bureaucracy while improving reliability in election administration.