The bill amends the Election Code to establish new requirements for individuals serving as poll watchers. Specifically, it mandates that a certificate of appointment must include an affidavit from the appointee affirming that they will not possess any recording devices while serving and that they have not been finally convicted of certain serious offenses. The new legal language specifies that these offenses include felonies of the first or second degree and any offenses related to election conduct.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the ineligibility criteria for serving as a poll watcher by explicitly stating that individuals convicted of these specified offenses are barred from serving. The changes aim to enhance the integrity of the election process by ensuring that only individuals without serious criminal backgrounds can act as poll watchers. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 33.006, Election Code 33.035 (Election Code 33)