The bill amends Chapter 17-14 of the General Laws to establish an online nomination paper portal, allowing voters to electronically sign nomination papers for candidates in general elections. The Secretary of State is responsible for creating and maintaining this portal, which aims to enhance accessibility for all voters, including those with disabilities, and ensures that electronic signatures are treated equivalently to traditional signatures on paper nomination papers.

The bill specifies that electronic signatures submitted through the online portal will count towards a candidate's total signature requirements. It outlines the process for voters to electronically sign nomination papers, including identity verification and attestation of the accuracy of the information provided, under penalty of perjury. The online nomination paper portal must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines.

Additionally, the bill allows for the online nomination paper portal to be fully implemented for the 2028 presidential preference primary and subsequent elections, while also permitting its use in special elections prior to that date. The Secretary of State is authorized to utilize federal funds and grant funding for the establishment of the portal, and may promulgate rules and regulations for its implementation.

The act also includes amendments to existing election offense laws to address the online nomination process, ensuring that violations related to signing nomination papers and voting qualifications remain applicable in this new context. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
3201: 17-23-17