This bill was recently introduced. Email the authors to let them know what you think about it.
Assembly Member Lackey's elections accessibility measure modifies California's requirements for public buildings serving as polling places and vote centers, focusing on space allocation and parking accommodations. The legislation amends the Elections Code to specify how school districts and public administrators must configure facilities used for voting operations.
Under the proposed changes, administrators must provide elections officials with adequate space for both voting operations and supply storage in a manner that prevents disruption to normal voting processes. The bill adds a requirement for internet access to be made available when requested by local elections officials. For parking accommodations, administrators must now designate accessible spaces and curbside parking areas for voter assistance when elections officials request these features, expanding upon existing provisions that require free general parking for poll workers and voters.
The measure maintains current provisions allowing public buildings to serve as polling places or vote centers up to 10 days before election day, while preserving governing bodies' options to continue school sessions, schedule staff development days, or close facilities during voting periods. All facilities must comply with federal accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Help America Vote Act, and Voting Rights Act.