Election Judges - Training and Signs - Accommodations for Voters in Need of Assistance
Impact
If enacted, the bill will require the State Board to integrate specific methods into the training curriculum that cater to the unique challenges faced by elderly and disabled individuals at polling places. Furthermore, the bill outlines that election judges will have uniform statewide training, which will help standardize the assistance provided across different jurisdictions. This uniformity aims to enhance voter experience and accessibility during elections, ensuring that all eligible voters can participate without undue barriers.
Summary
House Bill 702, titled 'Election Judges – Training and Signs – Accommodations for Voters in Need of Assistance', seeks to enhance the support provided to elderly and disabled voters during elections. The bill mandates that training for election judges must include comprehensive oral and written instructions on how to assist these voters effectively. This ensures that election judges are well-equipped to meet the varied needs of all voters, particularly those requiring special accommodations.
Contention
While the bill is largely seen as a positive step towards inclusivity, there may also be concerns about the resource implications for local election boards in implementing these training programs. Critics could argue about the costs associated with developing and distributing new training materials and how effectively this additional training will be integrated into existing election processes. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the sufficiency of the resources allocated to fully equip polling stations to meet these new requirements.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools; providing penalties.