Amendment 1 to HB 575 (Representative Maurice West, D-Rockford) was filed on October 28, 2025, and is a broad election-related omnibus bill amending the Election Code, along with conforming changes to several other statutes. It modifies procedures for filing nomination petitions, establishes new voting accessibility requirements, updates voter registration and ballot processes, and introduces a pilot program for universal vote centers. It also includes amendments to the School Code, Ethics Act, and other statutes with implications for local administration.
Key Election Code Provisions
- Adjusts filing dates for multi-township assessor petitions, moving the window earlier to 141–134 days before the consolidated election (currently 113–106 days).
- Requires election authorities to allow voters in line at closing time during early voting to cast a ballot.
- Mandates mixed-case lettering of candidate names on ballots (unless the local system cannot support it).
- Allows election authorities to authorize service of nomination objections via email under specified conditions.
- Requires each election authority to post certain election results online.
- Creates a universal vote centers pilot program, permitting eligible voters to cast ballots at any vote center within the jurisdiction.
- Requires curbside voting access for individuals with disabilities.
- Expands dual-purpose applications for voter registration through the Secretary of State, revising eligibility, notice, and verification procedures.
- Requires each election authority to establish a website for vote-by-mail ballot requests.
- Authorizes a reduction in the number of election judges per precinct.
- Updates testing requirements for voting equipment, applying the 5% testing rule to devices used during early voting and at vote centers.
Other Statutory Changes
- Clarifies that state and legislative candidates for federal office may fundraise during session if events occur outside Sangamon County.
- Allows school board associations to reimburse members for reasonable travel and lodging expenses tied to professional development.
- Provides that regional superintendent vacancies exceeding 28 months before the next general election are filled until that election if the vacancy occurs at least 130 days prior.
- Requires school districts, beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, to offer all eligible high school graduates the opportunity to register to vote.
- Includes a conforming change to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Act regarding board member compensation and technical corrections to the Open Meetings Act.
Potential County Impacts
Election Administration:
- County clerks and election authorities will need to adjust filing schedules for multi-township assessor candidates and update public notice procedures.
- Expanded early voting access (allowing voters in line at closing time) and mandatory curbside voting will require additional staffing, training, and logistical planning.
- The universal vote centers pilot program and the new online posting of results may require software updates, cybersecurity measures, and public communication resources.
- Reducing the number of election judges could alleviate staffing shortages but may also affect oversight or require reallocation of duties.
Technology and Infrastructure:
- Election authorities must develop or enhance websites for vote-by-mail requests and posting results.
- Changes to voter registration processing and electronic service of objections will require secure digital infrastructure and coordination with the State Board of Elections and the Secretary of State’s office.
Compliance and Training:
- County election staff must be trained on new dual-purpose application procedures, early voting rules, and ballot format standards.
- Curbside voting and vote center operations will necessitate updated ADA compliance assessments and potentially new equipment or signage.
Fiscal Considerations:
- Implementation may involve initial costs for technology upgrades, accessibility accommodations, and staff training.
- Longer-term efficiencies could arise from reduced judge requirements and streamlined electronic communications.
Intergovernmental Coordination:
- Counties may need to collaborate with municipalities, school districts, and regional offices of education on new voter registration initiatives for high school graduates and adjustments in the administration of regional superintendent elections.
Summary
This comprehensive election bill seeks to modernize and standardize several aspects of Illinois’ election process while enhancing accessibility and security. For counties, the most significant impacts relate to adjustments in election administration timelines, new voter service requirements, and technology obligations. Implementation planning and coordination with state agencies will be essential to ensure compliance and cost-effective execution.