Bill > HB601

This bill addresses election accessibility and voter service center operations in Hawaii by making several key changes. The legislation increases the number of voter service centers to match the number of county council members, with at least one center in each council district, and ensures equitable placement across counties, including rural areas. It mandates that all voter service centers operate during the same statewide days and hours, specifically from the tenth business day before an election during regular business hours. During these hours, each center must provide comprehensive services including in-person voter registration, receiving absentee and mail-in ballots, allowing in-person voting, and offering voting machine services for people with disabilities. The bill was prompted by issues observed during the November 5, 2024 general election, where voters experienced long lines and unequal access to voting services. To support these changes, the bill appropriates funds to each of Hawaii's counties (Honolulu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai) to cover the administrative costs of operating these voter service centers for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The legislation aims to create a more fair, efficient, equitable, and accessible voting process by standardizing and expanding voter service center operations across the state.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=601&year=2026