Georgia lawmakers delay QR-code ban, debate hand recounts
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Atlanta, Georgia. State lawmakers this week adjusted rules on vote tabulation by voting to delay a planned July 1 ban on QR-code-based counting and to retain the existing QR-code system for the upcoming midterm elections. The special session called by Governor Brian Kemp produced a Senate amendment that briefly required hand recounts for top-ticket races before leaders limited that provision.
This week’s legislative action drew immediate pushback from state Democrats and warnings from voting-rights activists about potential voter confusion in November. Republicans said the delay preserves operational stability through 2028; lawmakers and election officials now face implementation choices and potential legal, administrative, and procedural steps ahead of the fall midterm contests.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Two years ago: Georgia law set a July 1 ban on QR-code vote tabulation.
- 2. In the weeks before July 1: Governor Brian Kemp called a special legislative session.
- 3. Last week: Lawmakers indicated a deal to postpone the ban until 2028.
- 4. Weekend: Senate Republicans approved an amendment requiring hand recounts of top races.
- 5. Tuesday: Legislature passed a bill delaying QR-code changes to 2028 while limiting the recount mandate.
Why it matters
Your vote in Georgia's midterm elections will still be counted via QR-code. This could affect how quickly results are reported. If you're voting in a top-ticket race, there may be a hand recount. Keep an eye on local news for any changes.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
