This bill clarifies the authority of moderators on election day regarding the management of electioneering corridors and areas at polling places. It amends RSA 659:43, II through VI, establishing that moderators must create no-electioneering corridors that are at least 10 feet wide, extending from polling place entrances. The bill specifies that these corridors should allow voters to enter and exit without interference and permits voters to engage with individuals outside the corridor if they choose. Notably, the bill includes new provisions stating that moderators cannot extend these corridors beyond the property where the election is held and that their control over these areas is limited to the hours when the polling place is open.

Additionally, the bill mandates the designation of a preferred area for electioneering, which should be visible and audible from the primary entrance of the polling place, while adhering to local regulations. It allows electioneering outside both the no-electioneering corridor and the designated area, prohibits electioneering signs from being affixed to the polling place, and restricts unattended signs during polling hours. The bill also introduces a provision allowing unattended signs to be placed in the electioneering area up to 24 hours before the polling place opens, defining "attended" as having a candidate or volunteer nearby. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 659:43