The bill modifies various existing laws, including amendments to the Illinois Procurement Code, School Code, and the State Universities Civil Service Act, making them consistent with the new holiday designation. The measure states that General Election Day will be recognized as a legal holiday for schools, which means no school will be conducted on that day. Schools closed on this holiday are also required to serve as polling places, reinforcing the accessibility of voting locations for the public.
SB2300, introduced by Senator Julie A. Morrison, amends the Election Code of Illinois to designate the date of the general election on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November during even years as a state holiday, referred to as 'General Election Day'. This new designation is meant to encourage voter participation by ensuring that citizens can access the polls without the conflicts of a regular work or school day. By establishing General Election Day as a state holiday, the bill aims to facilitate and promote democratic engagement in the electoral process.
There may be points of contention surrounding this bill relating to the logistical impacts on schools and government offices. While supporters argue that the change promotes civic engagement and simplifies the voting process, critics could raise concerns about the implications for school calendars, local governments' operational effectiveness on holidays, and the costs associated with maintaining polling places in schools. Additionally, how this holiday will be accommodated or integrated into existing local government and educational frameworks may be subjects of debate.