The proposed bill would amend several sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes to change the date of the primary election from the first Tuesday in August to the second to last Tuesday in July in any year when a general or special election is held. Specifically, it would modify the language in sections 16-135, 16-201, 16-204, 16-206, 16-558.02, and 16-590 to reflect this new date. Additionally, the bill would allow signatures collected for the August 4, 2026 primary election to be submitted for the new July 21, 2026 date, ensuring they remain valid despite the change. It would also clarify that no new or amended statements of interest are required due to this date change.

Furthermore, the bill would adjust the timeframe for signature verification for provisional ballots, reducing the period from ten to seven calendar days after a general election that includes a federal office, and from business days to calendar days for other elections. It would also allow party chairmen to designate representatives for various election-related roles, including challengers and observers at voting locations. The bill includes a statement of legislative intent and emphasizes that it is an emergency measure, effective immediately upon the Governor's signature.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-135, 16-201, 16-204, 16-206, 16-550, 16-558.02, 16-590, 16-542, 16-402, 16-579.02, 16-579, 16-550.01, 16-168, 16-551, 16-602, 16-449, 16-191
Senate Engrossed Version: 16-135, 16-201, 16-204, 16-206, 16-558.02, 16-590, 16-542, 16-402