Enabling voters to request to have their ballots hand-counted.

This bill allows voters to request that their ballots be counted by hand instead of by machine. This option will be available for those who want an extra layer of verification for their vote. This change is meant to give voters confidence in the election process and ensure transparency.

The bill primarily affects voters who choose to exercise this hand-count option. Election officials will need to be prepared to accommodate these requests, which may require additional resources and procedures.

HB154 was introduced on January 6, 2025, and it was signed into law by the Governor on August 1, 2025, becoming effective on September 30, 2025. The law was passed following several key steps, including committee reports and conference committee meetings. The final version was adopted in both the House and Senate before being signed into law.