A bill proposing significant changes to Utah’s election system has cleared the state House of Representatives and is now moving to the Senate for further consideration. H.B. 300, a long-anticipated election reform measure, passed the House with 57 votes in favor on Tuesday.
Key Provisions in the Updated Bill
The latest version of H.B. 300 introduces several changes aimed at modifying how Utah residents cast their votes. Some of the most notable updates include:
- New Voter Identification Requirement: Voters will be required to provide the last four digits of their driver’s license or state ID when submitting their ballot.
- Revised Mail Ballot Rules: Starting in 2028, voters will have to opt-in to receive a mail-in ballot, rather than automatically receiving one.
- Mail Ballot Deadline Change: The postmark deadline for mailed ballots will be eliminated, requiring ballots to be physically received by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
Ensuring Election Security
Bill sponsor Rep. Jefferson Burton (R) emphasized that the measure seeks to balance access and security in the electoral process.
“This bill maintains the vote-by-mail system but enhances security by requiring photo ID verification, whether voting by mail or in person,” Burton stated during discussions on the House floor.
Adjustments to the Initial Proposal
The revised version of H.B. 300 emerged following negotiations between the House and Senate, as the original bill faced pushback over in-person ballot return requirements. Some lawmakers expressed concerns about making voting too restrictive, prompting modifications.
“We want to make voting as accessible as possible while ensuring the integrity of our elections,” said Sen. Mike McKell (R – Spanish Fork), who is sponsoring the bill in the Senate.
Voter ID Rules and Exceptions
If H.B. 300 is enacted, Utah voters will need to verify their identity using state-issued photo identification starting in 2026. This applies to both in-person and mail-in voting.
For individuals unable to obtain an ID—such as those with disabilities or homebound voters—the bill outlines an alternative process, allowing them to provide two approved forms of identification, such as a Social Security card and a bank statement.
Opting In for Mail Voting
A major change in 2028 will require voters to actively request a mail-in ballot instead of automatically receiving one. Registered voters will receive a notification by mail informing them of the need to opt-in for mail-in voting.
Once a voter opts in, their preference will remain valid for eight years. Renewals will be linked to driver’s license renewals or vehicle registrations.
New Deadline for Mailed Ballots
Another significant shift is the removal of the postmark deadline for mailed ballots. Instead, ballots must be received by election officials by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Ballot drop boxes will remain available until the same deadline.
Pushback from Critics
While Republican lawmakers argue the bill enhances election security, Democratic legislators and voter advocacy groups have raised concerns about its impact on voter accessibility.
In a statement, House Democrats warned that H.B. 300 could create barriers to voter registration, particularly for seniors, disabled residents, and marginalized communities.
“This bill will unnecessarily complicate the voting process, limit access to vote-by-mail, and create confusion for both voters and election officials,” their statement read.
Next Steps
With House approval secured, H.B. 300 now heads to the Senate, where further debate and possible amendments are expected.
