The proposed bill would amend current election statutes by establishing new requirements for polling places and voting centers. Specifically, it would remove the authority of the county board of supervisors to use voting centers in place of specifically designated polling places and instead require that voting centers be established in addition to designated polling places. Furthermore, it mandates that state, county, city, town, or school district offices, as well as district schools with gymnasiums, provide sufficient space for use as polling places when requested by election officials. The bill also eliminates the ability of school principals to deny requests for polling place use, ensuring that schools cannot refuse such requests based on space availability or safety concerns. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding school operations on election days. It requires district schools to close on primary and general election days, while allowing teachers and staff to conduct in-service training on those days. It also prohibits teachers and staff from using personal or vacation leave on election days, although it does not prevent schools from granting time off to vote as required by existing law. Overall, these changes aim to enhance accessibility and participation in the electoral process by ensuring adequate polling locations and support from educational institutions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-801, 16-411, 16-531, 16-201, 16-211, 16-402, 16-544, 16-579.02, 16-579, 16-452, 16-515, 16-204
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-801, 16-411, 16-531, 16-201, 16-211, 16-402, 16-544, 16-579.02, 16-579, 16-452, 16-515, 16-204