Utah’s Republican lawmakers are advancing a sweeping election security bill that would dismantle the state’s universal mail-in voting system. Under the proposal, voters must opt in to receive ballots by mail and provide ID verification starting in 2025. The House passed the measure 57-15, arguing it restores trust while critics call it a solution in search of a problem.
As a conservative state, being grouped with California and Oregon on mail voting isn’t a list I’m proud of,said House Speaker Mike Schultz.
The bill requires:
- Last four digits of ID numbers on mail ballots
- All ballots received by Election Day
- County clerks to verify signatures against state databases
Currently, 82% of Utah voters use mail ballots. Legislative auditors found no evidence of widespread fraud in 2023 but noted delays updating voter rolls. Democratic leaders contend the changes disproportionately affect elderly, disabled, and rural voters. This creates unnecessary barriers,argued Rep. Angela Romero.
Republican sponsors claim the reforms balance accessibility and security. A failed earlier version would have mandated in-person ID checks for mail voters. Senate leaders called that provision too restrictive before compromising on the current rules.
Gov. Spencer Cox has defended Utah’s election integrity but supports faster results: We lose trust when races aren’t decided on Election Night.The bill moves all ballot deadlines to 8 PM Election Day, eliminating two-week acceptance windows.
Additional GOP proposals include:
- Ending same-day voter registration
- Transferring election oversight from the Lieutenant Governor
- Withdrawing from the ERIC voter roll system
Utah currently requires proof of address and two IDs for registration but no photo ID to vote. Thirty-six states mandate some form of voter identification.