This bill proposes to amend Section 16-452 of the Arizona Revised Statutes by expanding the list of individuals with whom the Secretary of State (SOS) must consult before prescribing the elections instructions and procedures manual (EPM). Currently, the SOS is required to consult only with each county board of supervisors or other officer in charge of elections. The new language would add county recorders, as well as the chairpersons and ranking members of the committees with jurisdiction over election matters in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, to this list of consulted parties.

The bill does not alter any existing provisions regarding the SOS's responsibilities for prescribing rules related to early voting, ballot management, and communication with absent uniformed and overseas citizens. The changes would take effect on the general effective date, ensuring that the updated consultation process is implemented promptly. There is no anticipated fiscal impact on the state General Fund as a result of this legislation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-452