Iowa Republicans propose a bill to limit mail-in ballots. | Pixabay
Iowa Republicans propose a bill to limit mail-in ballots. | Pixabay
A week after Iowa officials celebrated record primary voter turnout following a mass mailing of absentee ballot applications, Republican lawmakers are proposing a bill that would limit the same results in November's general election.
Senate Republicans argue that their proposed measures will cut down on voter fraud. Studies have shown ballots cast by mail are without significant problems. House Republicans worked with Democrats to amend the bill to say the legislature should have the final say in how elections are conducted.
Democrats said the Senate bill is an effort in voter suppression.
Under the House-passed plan, Secretary of State Paul Pate would still be allowed to send absentee ballot applications en masse but would have to have the legislature's approval to do so.
Sen. Roby Smith said his bill would require voters to request an absentee ballot and show proof that they are registered voters.
“This bill is about security,” Smith said according to Madison.com. “This bill is to make sure someone’s vote is not erased by someone that is voting but is not legally allowed to vote.”
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