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SF2846 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Notice requirement at a closed polling place until the occurrence of a presidential election or redistricting

Related bill: HF2361

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to ensure voters are properly informed when their polling place has been changed. It mandates clear communication to voters about the new polling location until significant events, such as a presidential election or redistricting, occur.

Main Provisions

  • Notification Requirement: If a polling place location is changed, the responsible governing body must send a nonforwardable mailed notice to each affected household with at least one registered voter. This notice must arrive at least 25 days before the next election. A sample notice will be prepared by the secretary of state.
  • Posting Notices at Closed Polling Places: Local election officials must post a notice with details of the new polling place in large print at the previous location if possible, visible to voters, including those voting from cars. This notice should be posted for each primary and general election up until a presidential election or redistricting happens.
  • Language Requirements: The notice must be available in all languages required for the precinct.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • Introduction of a mandate to keep notices at closed polling locations until the occurrence of a presidential election or until redistricting occurs.
  • Expanded obligation for posting notices in multiple languages in accordance with section 204B.295.

Relevant Terms

  • Elections
  • Polling Place
  • Notice to Voters
  • Redistricting
  • Presidential Election
  • Local Election Officials
  • Multilingual Notices

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 19, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 19, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toElections

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Requires posting notice at closed polling places until a presidential election or redistricting."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Amends section 204B.16 regarding polling place notifications.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies notice requirements and responsibilities for local officials."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "204B.16"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Mentions exception for polling place changes on election day.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "204B.175"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Relates to voters casting votes from motor vehicles.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "204C.15"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Refers to language requirements for precinct notices.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "204B.295"
  }
]

Sponsors