HB865: HB865 Elections; superintendents post notices whenever their offices are closed due to a declared state of emergency; provide

Currently, Georgia law does not specifically require local election offices to notify the public when they close due to an emergency like a hurricane or other declared disaster. This bill would add a new section to Georgia's election code requiring local election superintendents, whether at the county or municipal level, to post notice as soon as possible whenever their office closes because of a declared state of emergency. The notice would have to appear both on the relevant county or municipal website and as visible signage on the office door. The posted notice would need to include details such as when the office is expected to reopen and how the public can contact office staff during the closure, if that information is available. The bill repeals any conflicting laws but does not list a separate effective date beyond standard enactment.

• Adds a new Code section (O.C.G.A. § 21-2-79) requiring local election superintendents to post notice when their office closes due to a declared state of emergency.
• Requires the closure notice to be posted on the county or municipal website as soon as possible after the closure occurs.
• Requires visible signage on the office door explaining the closure to anyone who shows up in person.
• Requires the notice to include when the office will reopen and how to contact staff during the closure, if that information is available.

County and municipal election superintendents, who run local elections and would have new posting duties, and Georgia voters and candidates who rely on being able to reach election offices, especially during emergencies like storms or other declared disasters.

During a declared emergency, voters, candidates, and campaign workers sometimes need to reach a local election office to register, request a ballot, or resolve a problem. This bill would ensure they can find out quickly, online or at the door, whether the office is closed and how to get help.

• Section 1 adds new Code section 21-2-79 to Chapter 2 of Title 21, covering elections and primaries generally.
• The new section applies whenever a local election superintendent's office closes due to a declared state of emergency, whether at the county or municipal level.
• Notice must be posted on the applicable county or municipal website and as visible signage on the office door.
• The notice must include reopening information and contact details for office staff during the closure, if applicable.
• Section 2 repeals any existing laws that conflict with the new requirement.

1. 2025-03-28House Second Readers (House)
2. 2025-03-27House First Readers (House)
3. 2025-03-25House Hopper (House)

• Omari Crawford (D, HD-089)Primary sponsor
• Saira Draper (D, HD-090)
• Inga Willis (D, HD-055)
• Mary Oliver (D, HD-084)
• Phil Olaleye (D, HD-059)

• election administration
• state of emergency
• public notice requirements
• local government