This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code related to jury service and election personnel. It introduces an exemption to jury service for qualified prospective jurors, allowing them to volunteer for election service as poll workers in lieu of serving on a jury. Specifically, Section 2-211 is amended to allow exemptions as provided in Section 2-212(4). Section 2-212 is further amended to include provisions for volunteer election service, detailing the process by which county clerks can request prospective jurors to serve as poll workers if there is a shortage of election personnel. If a juror accepts this opportunity and completes the service satisfactorily, they will be excused from jury service for the next two years.

Additionally, Section 34-303 is amended to clarify compensation for election personnel, stating that those volunteering for election service under the new provisions will not be subject to the same compensation requirements as other election personnel. The bill also includes a declaration of emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation aims to address the need for election workers while providing flexibility for those who may be called for jury duty.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 2-211, 2-212, 34-303