Earlier this year, the Election Modernization Bill was passed, with bipartisan support, amending certain statutes to enhance election transparency and security.
Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab told KMAN that a key piece of this bill was altering a current statute requiring requests for county vote recounts to take place before the State Board of Canvassers meets.
Schwab said this change was made after concerns were brought forward by Caryn Tyson following a very tight state treasurer race last year.
Schwab noted other small changes were made to election statutes during this year’s legislative session, consisting mainly of cleaning up minor inconsistencies or outdated laws.
Schwab also discussed with KMAN the recent decision to implement a presidential preference primary next year.
A presidential preference primary has not been held in Kansas since 1992. This election will take place March 19th, 2024.
Schwab said with multiple elections coming up this year and next, it’s important for him to emphasize and promote election security.
In other legislative news, Schwab discussed changes to filing procedures for Kansas business owners.
Schwab said they have made additional updates to make obtaining various business permits much simpler.
More information about elections and business permits can be found here.
