Substitute Bill No. 1515 proposes the creation of a Municipal Election Accountability Board within the Secretary of the State's office, aimed at enhancing the oversight and administration of elections, primaries, and referenda in municipalities. The board will consist of the Secretary of the State, the executive director of the State Elections Enforcement Commission, and nine members appointed by the Secretary with the General Assembly's consent, ensuring diverse political representation and expertise in election law. The bill clarifies that the establishment of this board does not change the existing powers of the Secretary of the State or the State Elections Enforcement Commission. It also outlines a referral process for municipalities suspected of election irregularities, allowing various officials to submit evidence for review by the board, which will hold public meetings starting in January 2026.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a tiered oversight system for municipalities designated by the board, categorized from Tier I to Tier IV, each requiring different levels of compliance and oversight. Tier I municipalities must create a mitigation plan and participate in mandatory training, while Tier II municipalities will maintain regular communication with the board. Tier III municipalities will have an appointed election monitor with investigative authority, and Tier IV municipalities will have elections fully administered by the board. The bill mandates that the board adopt necessary regulations by January 1, 2026, to implement these provisions, ensuring that citizens can report irregularities and that their rights to seek remedies under existing laws remain protected.