Fate of ballot QR codes in Georgia unclear as deadline for their removal looms

Brad Raffensperger speaking into a microphone at a podium
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger speaks at a pre-election day press conference at the Georgia State Capitol on Monday, November 4, 2024. (Matthew Pearson/WABE)

Election season in Georgia is here, with statewide primary elections less than four months away and the campaigning for those contests well underway.

But as Georgians prepare to cast their ballots, a key question remains unclear: Will the state be able to eliminate QR codes from ballots to comply with a 2024 state election law?

During the second day of budget hearings at the state Capitol, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger appeared before lawmakers to discuss Gov. Brian Kemp’s proposed budget for his office. The hearings will continue into Thursday, with Attorney General Chris Carr and other law enforcement and public safety-related agency heads scheduled to present.