The proposed bill aims to align Massachusetts election laws with the Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022, ensuring a uniform and faithful process for selecting presidential electors. Key amendments include changes to Section 118 of Chapter 54, which now specifies that electors are deemed elected fourteen days after the proclamation or six days before the electors' meeting, whichever comes first. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for the governor to issue duplicate-original certificates of election to the electors and transmit them to the Archivist of the United States, while also mandating public posting of these certificates on the state secretary's website.

Further provisions in the bill establish protocols for handling vacancies among electors, including the appointment of substitute electors and the execution of pledges by both nominees and substitutes. The bill also outlines the process for casting and certifying votes, ensuring that ballots are only accepted if they comply with the electors' pledges. An amended certificate of ascertainment must be prepared if the final list of electors differs from the initial submission, ensuring transparency and adherence to federal requirements. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 54-118, 54-138, 53-8