If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes regarding the conduct of elections in Arizona by establishing new requirements for polling places and voting centers. Specifically, it would remove the authority of county boards of supervisors to use voting centers in place of designated polling places, mandating that voting centers be established in addition to these polling places. Furthermore, it would require state, county, city, town, or school district offices, as well as district schools with gymnasiums, to provide sufficient space for use as polling places when requested by election officials. The bill also stipulates that district schools must close on primary and general election days, while teachers and staff are required to conduct in-service training on those days and are prohibited from using personal leave.

Additionally, the bill would eliminate the ability of school principals to deny requests for polling place use based on space availability or safety concerns. It would exempt schools from any local or state requirements that might restrict their use as polling places and define "gymnasium" specifically for this context. The bill aims to enhance accessibility to voting by ensuring that more locations are available for voters while also ensuring that schools play a role in facilitating the electoral process.

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