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Bill

HB 7434

AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS -- CONDUCT OF ELECTION AND VOTING EQUIPMENT, AND SUPPLIES

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karen Alzate and 7 co-sponsors

Prohibits federal ICE personnel from coming within 200 feet of polling places during voting to protect voters and polling staff.

06/22/2026 Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 7434

Overview

HB 7434 (Rhode Island, 2026) amends the state Elections law regarding the conduct of elections, specifically concerning voting equipment and supplies. The bill adds a new provision prohibiting federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel from approaching polling places during voting. It becomes effective upon passage.

Main purpose and intent

  • To restrict ICE activity near polling places during voting hours, aiming to protect the integrity and safety of the voting process and to prevent intimidation or disruption by federal immigration authorities at polling locations.

Key provisions and changes

  • New section 17-19-55 (Voting interference):

    • Prohibits any federal ICE employees, agents, or officials from being within two hundred feet (200') of any polling place while voting is being conducted.

  • Effective date:

    • The act takes effect upon passage.

Who/what is affected

  • Polling places within Rhode Island where elections are conducted.
  • ICE personnel (employees, agents, or officials) are restricted from approaching polling places during voting.
  • Election officials, poll workers, voters, and the general public at polling locations are indirectly affected by the enhanced protection and potential changes in polling place dynamics during voting hours.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced January 30, 2026, and referred to House Judiciary.
  • The bill’s action history shows committee consideration in March 2026, with later scheduling updates in June 2026, including a proposed substitute.
  • If enacted, the provision would become effective immediately upon passage; no separate implementation date is required.

Notable details

  • The distance ban is specifically set at 200 feet from polling places during voting.
  • The text does not outline enforcement mechanisms, penalties, or exceptions; those details are not provided in the submitted material.

Potential impact (informational)

  • Enhances perceived and actual safety for voters and polling staff by creating a buffer zone around polling places.
  • Could influence coordination between federal authorities and state/local election officials at or near polling sites.
  • May affect voter experience by reducing potential for on-site federal presence during voting hours.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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