Bill > SB487

This bill introduces comprehensive emergency voting procedures to enhance voter accessibility and flexibility, particularly for residents of secure congregate facilities like nursing homes, hospitals, and correctional institutions. The bill allows county clerks to establish "absentee voter assistance units" that can operate inside these facilities, providing an opportunity for residents to register and vote on the same day, even if they are not traditionally registered voters. Key provisions include allowing same-day voter registration, creating mobile voting units that can serve residents who might otherwise have difficulty accessing polling places, and establishing procedures for voting in emergency situations such as evacuations or facility lockdowns. The bill also modifies existing election laws to expand voting options, such as allowing online voter registration up to the Friday before an election, permitting county commissioners to designate mail-ballot precincts if a high percentage of voters are on the permanent absentee list, and providing county clerks more flexibility to adjust polling places in case of last-minute emergencies. Additionally, the bill requires county clerks to ensure that long-term facility residents have opportunities to apply for absentee ballots in advance and provides detailed guidelines for maintaining ballot security and proper chain of custody during these alternative voting procedures.

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=487&year=25