At least three state senators are drafting legislation that would require automatic recounts in close election races in Hawaii. The bills being drafted seek to avoid or more quickly resolve election disputes such as the one ongoing for a Honolulu City Council seat, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Monday. The council is still without a ninth member after candidate Tommy Waters challenged Trevor Ozawa’s 22-vote victory at the last election.
Hawaii does not require recounts in tight races, but state law allows legal challenges of results based on certain criteria.
Candidates, the involved political party or 30 voters from the involved district can file a complaint with the state Supreme Court within 20 days after the election if they can show cause, such as fraud or voting irregularities.
Full Article: Hawaii lawmakers draft bills for recounts in close elections | National Politics | dailyjournalonline.com.