This bill mandates that cities and towns ensure access to voting for individuals with disabilities by requiring the implementation of accessible voting systems at polling places. Specifically, it amends RSA 659:20-b to eliminate the requirement for a pilot program and instead requires cities and towns to enter into an agreement with the Secretary of State for the use of these systems. The bill outlines responsibilities for both local governments and the Secretary of State, including the secure storage and maintenance of the voting systems, as well as the provision of guidance for programming local ballots.

Additionally, the bill changes the effective date for certain provisions from June 30, 2025, to December 31, 2025, and appropriates $100,000 from the General Fund to the Election Fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, to assist with the costs associated with implementing accessible voting systems. The estimated fiscal impact indicates that local expenditures could range from $248,000 to over $744,000 annually, depending on the number of ballots and wards in each municipality. The bill emphasizes the importance of utilizing available federal funds before tapping into the General Fund for these expenses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 659:20-b
As Amended by the House: 659:20-b