This bill amends the law regarding early voting in Arkansas by allowing county boards of election commissioners to close certain early voting locations during inclement weather. Specifically, it introduces a new subsection to Arkansas Code 7-5-418, which permits these boards to hold emergency meetings, either in person or electronically, to decide on closing one or more early voting sites for one or more days due to adverse weather conditions. However, any decision to close a location requires a unanimous vote from the board members.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that at least one early voting location in the county seat must remain open every day designated for early voting, ensuring that voters still have access to polling places despite potential closures. The term "county seat" is defined in accordance with existing law, ensuring clarity in the application of this provision.
Statutes affected: SB 578: 7-5-418
Act 766: 7-5-418