More authority sought for election officials in large counties

The Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee heard testimony Feb. 27 on a bill that would grant greater authority to chief deputy election commissioners in the three largest Nebraska counties.

LB418, introduced by Omaha Sen. Rick Kolowski, would provide additional powers and duties to the chief deputy election commissioner in counties with a population of more than 100,000. Currently, the bill would apply to Douglas, Lancaster and Sarpy counties.

Under the bill, election commissioners in the three counties would be required to perform their duties in consultation with and with the agreement of the chief deputy commissioner. Duties under the bill’s provisions include training election workers and creation and management of precincts and polling locations.

Kolowski said he would introduce an amendment to change a provision in the bill that would require unresolved disputes between an election commissioner and chief deputy election commissioner to be forwarded to the county board for resolution. Instead, disputes would be directed to the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office, he said.

Citing controversy in Douglas County during the 2012 general election regarding precinct and polling place changes, Kolowski said state law should provide chief deputy election commissioners a greater role in election oversight. Because the two officials are required by law to be from different political parties, he said, partisan conflicts arise that may negatively impact the election process.

“I introduced LB418 to increase accountability, equity and collaboration in the administration of our elections,” he said.

Adam Morfeld of Nebraskans for Civic Reform testified in support of the bill, saying it would increase accountability. Because election commissioners are appointed rather than elected, he said, sufficient oversight is essential.

“It’s always good to have an extra pair of eyes,” Morfeld said.

Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale testified in a neutral capacity. While acknowledging persistent problems in Douglas County, he said it was unclear whether LB418 was the best solution.

Gale said most election commissioners and deputies are able to have functional relationships that do not negatively impact the election process.

No opposition testimony was given and the committee took no immediate action on the bill.