The state of California has taken legal action against Shasta county over Measure Ba voter-approved initiative that seeks to significantly alter local election procedures. The lawsuit, filed by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weberargues that Measure B is unlawful and contradicts state election laws.
Measure B, which passed with 56% of the vote in the June primary, proposes a range of changes, including mandatory voter IDthe elimination of most mail-in votingand a requirement for all ballots to be hand-counted. The measure also aims to disconnect the county’s voter rolls from state oversight and implement a one-day election process.
Legal Challenges and State Intervention
The lawsuit names Shasta County Registrar of Voters Clint Curtis and the five key activists behind Measure B as respondents. The state argues that Shasta County, despite its charter status, does not have the authority to implement such changes, as they would impede statewide regulation of election integrity.
This legal action is not the first challenge to Measure B. Earlier attempts by the county’s attorney and local resident Jennifer Katske to halt the measure were either dismissed or withdrawn. Katske expressed her concerns about the measure’s potential to divert public resources and lead to costly litigation.
The Proponents’ Perspective
Proponents of Measure B, including Jim Burnett, have argued that the county’s charter allows for local control over elections. Burnett acknowledged the likelihood of legal challenges but expressed determination to see the measure through. He emphasized the importance of local control in election administration.
Another central figure in the Measure B campaign, Laura Hobbs, has faced criticism for her dual role as an elections office analyst and a key proponent of the measure. Despite these challenges, Burnett remains optimistic about the measure’s chances in court.
Preparing for the Future
As the legal battle unfolds, Shasta County’s elections office must prepare for the upcoming November election. Registrar Clint Curtis has outlined plans to conduct both hand counts and machine counts of ballots, as well as maintain separate voter rolls to comply with both Measure B and state law.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for election procedures in Shasta County and potentially set a precedent for other local governments seeking to implement similar changes. The state’s swift action highlights the importance of upholding statewide election laws and protecting voters’ rights.
