Plain English Breakdown
The official text does not define specific terms like 'official canvass' or 'provisional ballot', so definitions were removed.
AB-5: New Deadline for Counting Election Ballots
This law requires election officials in California to finish counting most ballots within 13 days after an election and report any delays to the Secretary of State.
What This Bill Does
- Requires elections officials to finish counting all regular ballots by the 13th day following an election, with exceptions for provisional ballots and those needing voter verification or signature confirmation.
- Mandates that officials release a vote count once they have finished counting the eligible ballots.
- Requires officials who cannot meet the deadline to file a notice of extension with the Secretary of State explaining the reason.
- Imposes a state-mandated local program by increasing duties for county elections officials.
Who It Names or Affects
- County elections officials
- The California Secretary of State
Limits and Unknowns
- Reimbursement from the state depends on whether the Commission on State Mandates determines that costs were created by this law.
- The effective date is not listed in the provided official text.