Substitute Bill No. 5533 is designed to strengthen the protection of election processes, sites, workers, and voters, set to take effect on July 1, 2026. The bill imposes restrictions on law enforcement and authorized personnel within 250 feet of election sites, allowing their presence only under specific conditions, such as having a judicial warrant or being requested by election officials. It also prohibits individuals from wearing masks that obscure their identity near these sites, except for valid reasons, and eliminates the requirement for identification in this vicinity. Additionally, the bill criminalizes the possession of firearms or deadly weapons within the same distance, with violations resulting in a class C felony charge and disenfranchisement.

The legislation further enhances the authority of the State Elections Enforcement Commission and the Attorney General, allowing for the investigation of practices that infringe on citizens' rights through threats or intimidation. Key amendments include the definition of "election worker" to encompass municipal clerks and assistant clerks, and the introduction of penalties for influencing election workers through harassment, as well as for disclosing their personal information. The bill also categorizes tampering with voting equipment and absentee ballot drop boxes as class D felonies and mandates timely notification to the Attorney General regarding election record subpoenas. Overall, the bill aims to ensure a secure electoral environment while imposing stricter penalties for violations and enhancing oversight of election-related activities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-364a, 9-352
GAE Joint Favorable Substitute: 9-364a, 9-352
File No. 548: 9-364a, 9-352
JUD Joint Favorable: 9-364a, 9-352