In a late-night session on Friday, Georgia lawmakers passed significant changes to state election laws. The new legislation broadens the criteria for challenging voter registrations, eliminates bar codes from printed ballots, and increases the documentation required from local election officials to certify elections.
The changes are set to take effect on July 1, pending Governor Brian Kemp’s signature.
Voting rights groups are particularly concerned about Senate Bill 189, which they argue could lead to an increase in voter registration challenges. Senate Bill 189 aims to streamline the process of challenging voter registrations, making it easier for individuals or groups to question the eligibility of registered voters.
