Us Congress House Bill HB9967

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/11/24
• Refer: 10/11/24

Caption

POL Act Protect Our Local workers Act

Impact

If enacted, HB 9967 would have significant implications for how states manage and allocate funds for election security. By authorizing the use of federal payments for physical security, states would be able to invest in necessary infrastructure improvements such as surveillance systems, security personnel, and safety training for election workers. This could lead to a more secure election environment, potentially increasing voter confidence and participation. However, the ability to access these funds may vary by state, which could create disparities in security measures across different jurisdictions.

Summary

House Bill 9967, also known as the Protect Our Local Workers Act, is designed to amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to specifically allow states to allocate funds for enhancing the physical security of polling places and poll workers. This amendment enables states to utilize federal funding to improve safety measures at polling locations, thereby aiming to protect those who participate in the electoral process. The implication of this bill underscores the increasing need for securing election infrastructures, particularly in the face of rising concerns regarding voter intimidation and election-related violence.

Contention

The bill does not seem to have significant opposition within the context of its outlined purpose. However, concerns may arise regarding the effective allocation of funds and the potential for these measures to disproportionately benefit certain locations over others. Critics may argue that while enhancing physical security is essential, it should not come at the expense of addressing systemic issues within the electoral process that could hinder voter access. Thus, while the focus on security is important, it necessitates a balanced approach to ensure that election accessibility remains a priority.