This bill amends section 32-944 of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to enhance voting access for individuals who are unable to vote in-person due to mobility issues and are housed in specific facilities such as jails, nursing homes, and hospitals. It introduces definitions for "facility" and "restricted individual," and mandates that election commissioners or county clerks coordinate with facility staff to facilitate voting for eligible voters. The bill requires the development of an election plan that includes providing voter information, facilitating registration and voting services, and ensuring that restricted individuals have access to necessary materials and information regarding their voting rights.

Additionally, the bill establishes a civil penalty for non-compliance by facility staff with the outlined requirements, which will be determined by the district court. It repeals previous provisions that allowed registered voters to administer ballots on behalf of election officials in nursing homes or hospitals, thereby shifting the responsibility to the election commissioners or county clerks and their designated staff. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that individuals in these facilities can exercise their voting rights effectively and without barriers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-944