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. It requires the legislative body of each city and town 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 with no elected mayor, the council president is responsible for the nominations. Additionally, if a vacancy occurs and the remaining members belong to different political parties, the respective party chairpersons can submit lists for nominations.

The bill clarifies the term lengths for members and alternates, establishing that terms will expire on a staggered basis on the first Monday of March in odd-numbered years. If the term expiration dates on record for any canvassing authority members are found to be in noncompliance with the provisions of this act, the town or city clerk is required to provide written notice of the correction to the canvassing authority and any affected member and amend the official records accordingly.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the powers and duties of the canvassing authority, including the appointment of a chief local election official responsible for election administration and communication with the state election board. This official must maintain emergency contact information and is the sole agent authorized to request access to the statewide central voter register. The act aims to ensure compliance with the new provisions regarding term expirations and the appointment process, with the city or town clerk responsible for notifying any discrepancies. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2027.