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HB 324

COURTS-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

House Bill 324 allows voters aged 75+, disabled individuals, pregnant voters, and caregivers to vote immediately without waiting in line, enhancing accessibility and participation.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 324

Summary of House Bill 324

Bill Number: HB 324
Title: Elections; preferential treatment during advance voting and during certain hours on election day to certain voters; provisions
Status: House Withdrawn, Recommitted
Introduced: February 06, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 324 aims to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to provide preferential voting treatment for specific groups of voters during advance voting and on election day. The bill seeks to enhance accessibility for individuals who may face challenges in the voting process due to age, disability, or caregiving responsibilities.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following changes to Chapter 2 of Title 21 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated:

  1. Preferential Treatment During Advance Voting:

    • Voters who are:
      • 75 years of age or older
      • Blind
      • Deaf
      • Amputees
      • Pregnant
      • Accompanied by children aged two years or younger
      • Accompanied by children with special needs (regardless of age)
    • Will be allowed to vote immediately at the next available voting compartment or booth without waiting in line during advance voting. This applies to locations using direct recording electronic voting systems or for casting written absentee ballots.

  2. Preferential Treatment on Election Day:

    • Similar provisions apply on election day between the hours of 9:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. for the same categories of voters. They will be granted immediate access to vote without waiting in line upon request to a poll officer.

  3. Notice Requirements:

    • The provisions of this bill must be prominently displayed in both the registrar's office and the voting place to ensure that eligible voters are aware of their rights under this law.

  4. Repeal of Conflicting Laws:

    • The bill includes a clause to repeal any existing laws that conflict with its provisions.

Who Would Be Affected

The bill primarily affects:
- Voters who are elderly (75 years or older)
- Voters with disabilities (blind, deaf, amputees)
- Pregnant voters
- Caregivers of young children (two years or younger) or children with special needs

This legislation aims to improve the voting experience for these groups by reducing wait times and enhancing accessibility.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 06, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
  • February 10, 2025: First reading in the House.
  • February 11, 2025: Second reading in the House.
  • February 27, 2025: House Committee favorably reported the bill by substitute.
  • April 04, 2025: Bill was withdrawn and recommitted.

Conclusion

House Bill 324 seeks to create a more inclusive voting environment in Georgia by providing preferential treatment to certain vulnerable voter groups. By allowing these individuals to vote without waiting in line, the bill aims to facilitate greater participation in the electoral process.

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

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