This bill amends current law to designate the days of the state primary preceding a biennial election and the quadrennial presidential primary as legal holidays. Specifically, it adds language to RSA 288:1, stating that these primary days, along with existing legal holidays, will be recognized as days when state offices, cities, towns, school districts, and community colleges or universities supported by the state will not be open for regular purposes. The bill also clarifies that this closure does not apply to employees deemed necessary for essential governmental services, including those related to the elections.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, RSA 288:1-a, which mandates that all employers, when practicable, allow employees up to three hours away from work to vote during the biennial primary, the quadrennial presidential primary, and general election days. This provision aims to facilitate voter participation by ensuring that employees have the opportunity to cast their ballots without facing work-related barriers. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 288:1