The 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. 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 the closure of 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 as per existing law in 14-14-301. This legislation aims to balance the need for voter access with the safety of voters and election officials during severe weather events.

Statutes affected:
SB 578: 7-5-418
Act 766: 7-5-418