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Bill

Bill

H 823

An Act relative to election emergencies

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Donato

Massachusetts legislation establishing procedures for declaring election emergencies and implementing contingency voting measures during circumstances preventing normal electoral operations.

Accompanied a study order, see H5253 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 823

Legislative bill overview

H 823 establishes a framework for declaring and managing election emergencies in Massachusetts, allowing state officials to implement contingency procedures when circumstances prevent normal voting operations. The bill defines what constitutes an election emergency, outlines the declaration process, and specifies temporary measures that can be invoked to ensure continued voting access.

Why is this important

Election emergencies—whether caused by natural disasters, infrastructure failures, cybersecurity incidents, or public health crises—could prevent voters from casting ballots or election officials from administering elections. This bill creates legal clarity and predetermined procedures to address such scenarios, potentially preventing disputes about whether emergency measures are constitutional or appropriate.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of executive power: Critics may argue the bill grants too much unilateral authority to declare emergencies without sufficient legislative oversight, while proponents may counter that election crises require rapid response
  • Definition ambiguity: The specific triggers and thresholds for declaring an "election emergency" could be debated—what level of disruption warrants invoking extraordinary measures?
  • Voting access vs. election security: Balancing rapid accommodation of voters during emergencies against potential security vulnerabilities or fraud concerns is an inherent tension in emergency election procedures

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

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