A Georgia Senate panel has approved a revised version of House Bill 397, a piece of election legislation that has faced scrutiny for potential changes to voting laws. While the amended bill eliminates some of the most controversial proposals, including plans to hand voter challenge complaints to state election officials and enforce new ballot counting methods, it still retains elements drawing criticism.

One key point of contention remains the bill’s limitations on absentee ballot drop-off times before Election Day. Critics argue this restriction, along with other changes to election law, could disenfranchise voters. The bill’s sponsor, Representative Tim Fleming, opted to remove a proposed rule concerning ballot counting on election night. Furthermore, the legislation seeks to prohibit the sharing of third-party voter lists with the ERIC (Electronic Registration Information Center) database and delays Georgia’s transition to an alternative system until July 1, 2027. Although the revised bill continues to grant the State Election Board new rulemaking authority, it no longer allows the board to handle appeals related to voter eligibility challenges.

Senator Derrick Mallow voiced concerns regarding the scope of the board’s powers even in the updated version. Despite these concerns, Chairman Sam Watson commended the sponsors for addressing various issues in the revised bill, suggesting a step towards finding common ground on election regulations in Georgia.

The bill now moves forward in the legislative process.