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HB 7782

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

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jennifer Boylan and 6 co-sponsors

In Rhode Island, the window to request a recount extends from 7 to 9 days after results are declared, and no election certificates can be issued until any recount is finished.

06/10/2026 Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 7782

Summary of HB 7782 (Rhode Island, 2026)

Title

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

Purpose and intent

  • The bill modifies the window in which a candidate can request a recount of votes after a state or federal election.
  • It aims to ensure that recounts are completed before the state issues certificates of election.

Key provisions

  • Section 17-19-37 (amendment to the Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies):
    • Current language permits a candidate to petition the state board for a recount within seven (7) days after election results are declared.
    • The bill changes this period to nine (9) days for requesting a recount.
    • It requires that no certificates of election may be issued until the recount, if any, is completed.
    • After a recount is completed, the state board will issue the certificate of election to the winner as soon as practicable, in line with its other duties.

Effective date

  • The act takes effect upon passage.

Affected entities and potential impact

  • Candidates and campaigns:
    • They gain two additional days (from 7 to 9 days) to request a recount.
    • This provides a slightly longer window to challenge or review election results.
  • Rhode Island State Board of Elections:
    • Must withhold issuing certificates of election until any recount is completed.
    • Responsible for conducting recounts (if requested) under the board’s existing procedures.
  • Electoral process and timelines:
    • Recount timing could extend the period before a final certificate of election is issued, depending on the duration of any recount.
    • Aims to enhance accuracy and integrity of election results before certifying winners.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • The bill amends the statutory deadline for requesting a recount from 7 days to 9 days after the declaration of results.
  • The process for recounts and certification remains governed by current provisions (including Section 17-19-37.1 for recount procedures, as referenced in the bill).
  • Certification of election cannot occur until the recount process is completed, ensuring verification prior to final certification.

Sponsorship and status

  • Introduced: February 12, 2026
  • Sponsored by: Rep. Boylan, Rep. Knight, Rep. Kazarian, Rep. Dawson, Rep. Shallcross Smith, Rep. Tanzi, Rep. Speakman
  • Co-sponsors: Rep. Mary Ann Shallcross-Smith, Rep. Jennifer Boylan, Rep. June Speakman, Rep. Katie Kazarian, Rep. Teresa Tanzi, Rep. Matthew Dawson, Rep. Jason Knight
  • Committee: House State Government & Elections
  • Action history:
    • 02/12/2026: Introduced and referred
    • 03/20/2026: Scheduled for hearing/consideration
    • 03/26/2026: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
    • 04/24/2026: Scheduled for consideration
    • 04/30/2026: Committee recommends passage

If you’d like, I can add a quick plain-language risk/benefit snapshot or compare this with recount timelines in neighboring states.

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

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