POLL Act

Reduced Waiting Times: The bill requires States to implement measures to ensure a waiting time of less than 30 minutes at any polling place (Section 3(a)(1)). This aims to protect voters from the economic costs and discouragement caused by long lines (Section 2(6)).

Protection for Vulnerable Groups: The plan must include measures to ensure equitable waiting times for all voters, specifically including voters with disabilities (Section 3(a)(1)).

Emergency Voting Options: In the event of equipment failure or other circumstances causing unreasonable delays, individuals can request an emergency paper ballot to ensure they can cast their vote (Section 3(a)(4)(1)).

Accountability Through Legal Action: The bill creates a private right of action, allowing aggrieved individuals to sue for civil penalties if they are forced to wait more than 30 minutes (Section 3(b)).

Standardized Resource Distribution: The Attorney General will issue standards to ensure a uniform and nondiscriminatory distribution of voting systems and poll workers, taking into account factors like the needs of disabled voters and those with limited English proficiency (Section 4(b)(1)).

Increased Election Integrity: The act prohibits chief State election administration officials from taking an active part in political management or campaigns for Federal offices, which helps prevent the use of official authority to interfere with elections (Section 5(a)).

Requirement for State Remedial Plans: Jurisdictions that experience substantial numbers of voters waiting more than 60 minutes may be forced to comply with a remedial plan established by the Attorney General (Section 3(a)(2)(A)).

Mandatory Resource Allocation: States are required to provide a minimum number of voting systems, poll workers, and other election resources, which must be implemented by January 1, 2027 (Section 4(a)(1)).

Constraints on Election Officials: Chief State election administration officials are prohibited from participating in political management or campaigns, which includes serving on an authorized committee of a candidate (Section 5(a)).