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Petition transcription
Petition transcription is a method used by circulators to increase signature gathering efficiency by writing in certain information for the signer.
Transcribing or filling in a signature on behalf of a signer is never legal. In certain states, however, transcribing the printed name, address, zip code, county, date, etc. can be legal for certain kinds of petitions.
Transcribing can be especially useful for a circulator collecting signatures for multiple petitions. Transcribing allows the signer to sign and write all of their information on the first petition and simply sign their name on the remaining petitions, relying on the circulator to duplicate their information. It also allows the signer to verbally communicate their information, while the circulator writes it down in the appropriate spaces on the petition form.
Requirements by state
Four states have laws regarding petition transcription by circulators, while other states that provide for initiatives and referendums do not say whether or not it is legal for a circulator to transcribe elector information.
- In Arizona and Colorado, circulators cannot transcribe signer information.
- In Oregon and South Dakota, circulators may assist signers by transcribing information.
See also
Footnotes