SB 851: Elections.

The bill aims to improve the enforcement of election laws and protect the integrity of the electoral process. It requires state or local agencies to notify the secretary of state and attorney general within 3 days of filing or being served with a court action related to elections. Agencies must also provide written notice before entering into a settlement or agreement related to federal law claims. The bill specifies that certain election duties, such as declaring election results and submitting certified statements, are ministerial and nondiscretionary, and requires the secretary of state to ensure compliance. It also expands the scope of existing crimes to include uniformed law enforcement officers and expands penalties for crimes related to polling places and ballot collection. The bill updates voting system standards to meet federal minimum requirements and incorporates best practic…