Arizona Legislature Approves Game-Changing Bill for Instant Election Results

By Matthew Holloway |

The Arizona legislature has successfully passed SB 1011 and HB 2703, addressing long-standing concerns about delayed election results. These measures are now on the Governor’s desk awaiting approval, aiming to enhance the efficiency of election day processes.

The bills propose significant changes, including a deadline for ballot drop-offs set for the Friday before election day. Additionally, voters in populated counties will need to confirm their addresses every election cycle to receive mail-in ballots, while residents in less populated areas will do so every four years.

Supporters of the bills, such as Scot Mussi, President of the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, voiced their approval. Mussi stated that Arizona has lagged behind other states regarding timely election results, expressing hope that Governor Katie Hobbs will enact the bill promptly. “Voters are exhausted of watching this slow-motion train wreck every November,” he remarked.

President Warren Petersen echoed these sentiments to Fox10, noting constituents’ frustrations over the long wait for election outcomes. “This bill is a crucial step toward providing results on the election night itself,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Arizona GOP fervently urged Governor Hobbs to sign the bill. Their posts on social media emphasized the desire of Arizonans for same-day results, urging the Governor to prioritize the electorate’s voice over political agendas. Their emphasis on the immediate action required highlighted the urgency for change in the state’s electoral process.

However, Governor Hobbs has raised objections to the bills. She argues that the proposed changes will hamper voting accessibility by limiting early drop-off options and undermining the state’s Active Early Voting List. “Legislators are trying to push through a partisan bill that will restrict mail-in voting,” she stated, criticizing the lack of compromise regarding faster vote counting measures.

As the situation unfolds, the outcome of this legislative effort could significantly reshape Arizona’s electoral landscape.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.