HB 21-1176

Abstract

The bill creates the Colorado bipartisan election commission (commission) in the department of state, a 5-member panel whose main function is to make recommendations to the secretary of state (secretary) and the general assembly concerning the manner in which a comprehensive audit of the state's election processes is to be conducted. The bill specifies requirements relating to the qualifications of persons appointed to the commission and the operation of the commission. The commission is to determine such matters as the scope of the audit, the matters to be audited, and the procedures that will guide the audit. The bill also requires the commission to consider whether an audit should consider additional issues specified in the bill. The commission is required to prepare a report summarizing its findings and conclusions by December 1, 2021. The report must include the commission's recommendation on the manner in which a comprehensive audit of the state's election processes must be conducted. The commission may also include in its report any recommendations for changes in the Colorado Revised Statutes or the election rules of the secretary of state that will facilitate the administration of secure and fair elections in the state. The commission is required to submit its report to the secretary, the legislative audit committee, and the general assembly. The commission is repealed September 1, 2022. (Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)