This bill proposes several updates to current election statutes in Arizona, primarily changing the date of the primary election from the first Tuesday in August to the last Tuesday in July, starting in 2026. Specifically, it deletes references to the August date and inserts the new July date in multiple sections, including sections 16-201, 16-204, and 16-206. Additionally, it clarifies that if a political subdivision holds a primary or first election, it must occur on this new date, regardless of the terminology used to describe the election.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions that allow candidates and initiative petitions to submit signatures collected using the old August date without penalty, ensuring those signatures remain valid for the newly scheduled July primary. It also includes new language regarding the designation of party representatives at ballot replacement locations and voting centers, as well as the presence of challengers at voting places. Lastly, the bill is classified as an emergency measure, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-201, 16-204, 16-206, 16-550, 16-558.02, 16-590, 16-402, 16-579.02, 16-579, 16-550.01, 16-168, 16-551, 16-602, 16-449, 16-191