Georgia’s State Election Board passed a new law giving county election boards the authority to make a “reasonable inquiry” before certifying election results. The move comes less than 100 days ahead of the November election.
The vote passed 3-2, with board Chairman John Fervier, who was appointed by Republican Gov. Brian Kemp earlier this year, crossing party lines to vote against the rule.
Supporters said the measure is necessary because members of county election boards must swear results are accurate and board members need to be able to assure themselves the totals are correct before doing so.
However, opponents said the new rule is likely to create post-election chaos. They argue that the board is defying state law that says county officials “shall certify” results, and warn that giving local elections officials the authority to refuse to certify election results could be used as a partisan tactic to control the results.
The new rule is set to take effect in 20 days, but it could be challenged in court.
During that same meeting, the Georgia State Election Board also passed a motion to increase the number of poll watchers who are allowed to watch the tabulation process. It also unanimously voted against a renewed effort to create new rules for hand-marked paper ballots in time for November’s election.
