Bill

SB 554

83(R) - 2013
Criminal Justice

Vote Recommendation

Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Donna Campbell

Bill Caption

Relating to the penalty for theft of an official ballot or official carrier envelope for an election.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication is anticipated on the State or local governments.

Bill Analysis

Summary: Currently, the penalty for theft of an official election ballot is a state jail felony punishable by 180 days to 2 years in jail and an up to $10,000 fine. SB 554 would increase the penalty to a third degree felony punishable by 2 to 10 years in jail and an up to $10,000 fine.

Analysis: SB 554 represents a significant penalty increase for theft of an official election ballot. Penalty increases do not necessarily mean greater deterrent. However, theft of an election ballot is a grave offense and could alter the results of an election. We remain neutral on SB 554.