Bill > HR1467

This bill aims to encourage local governments to hold elections in odd-numbered years by creating a financial incentive through federal funding restrictions. Specifically, the POLE (Protecting Our Local Elections) Act would prohibit federal funds from being used to administer elections in any state that does not allow its local governments to conduct local office elections in odd-numbered years. The bill's findings suggest that odd-year local elections provide several benefits, including greater focus on local candidates and issues, less crowded ballots, and more informed voter decision-making. Congress expresses the view that local governments should have the authority to hold elections in odd-numbered years and that local governance is the most effective form of representation. The funding prohibition would take effect in fiscal year 2027, meaning states would need to update their election laws by then to continue receiving federal election administration funds. The bill amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to implement this new requirement, essentially creating a financial mechanism to encourage states to provide more flexibility to local governments in scheduling their elections.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1467/all-info