This bill proposes updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically section 16-452, regarding the Elections Procedures Manual (EPM). The bill clarifies that the requirement for the Secretary of State (SOS) to adopt the EPM shall not be interpreted as an excessive delegation of legislative powers. Additionally, it specifies that the EPM will only have the force of law for provisions that the Legislature has explicitly authorized the SOS to include, distinguishing these from sections included under the general authority granted to the SOS.

The current statute remains unchanged in its language regarding the force of law of the EPM, but the bill adds new language to reinforce the limitations on the SOS's authority. The new provisions aim to ensure that the legislative intent is clear and that the SOS's rule-making power is not overextended beyond what has been specifically authorized by the Legislature.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-452
House Engrossed Version: 16-452