The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 17-8, titled "Local Canvassing Authorities," to enhance the appointment process and operational structure of local canvassing authorities in cities and towns. It requires the legislative body of each municipality to appoint a bipartisan canvassing authority consisting of three qualified electors, with specific provisions for alternate members. In cities and towns that elect a mayor, the mayor is required to nominate members from lists submitted by party chairpersons within thirty days of receiving notice of a vacancy. In cities and towns without an elected mayor, the council president will fulfill this role. Additionally, if a vacancy occurs and the remaining members belong to different political parties, the respective party chairpersons of recognized political party committees can submit lists for nominations.

The bill clarifies the terms of service for members and alternates of the canvassing authority, establishing that their terms will expire on a staggered basis on the first Monday of March in odd-numbered years. It mandates that if the term expiration dates on record for any canvassing authority members are found to be in noncompliance, the town or city clerk must immediately correct them. The bill designates the town or city clerk, or a designated official in municipalities with a separate election office, as the chief local election official, responsible for liaising with the state election authorities and managing access to the statewide central voter register. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.