Bill > SB0355

This bill comprehensively reforms municipal elections in Indiana by moving town and city elections to even-numbered years (specifically presidential and non-presidential election years) while providing flexibility for municipalities. Key provisions include: towns with populations of 10,000 or fewer will generally hold municipal elections in even-numbered years, with the option for towns over 10,000 to opt out and continue holding elections in odd-numbered years, and cities can choose to opt into the even-year election cycle. The bill also increases the time voters may remain in a voting booth from four to seven minutes, adjusts election terminology, and provides detailed transition rules for existing elected officials. Municipalities will have until December 1, 2025, to decide whether to adopt the new election schedule, with the first elections under the new system beginning in 2028. The legislation aims to standardize municipal election timing and potentially increase voter participation by aligning local elections with higher-turnout state and national elections.