Text to be removed highlighted in red.
1 New Section; Use of Public Buildings as Polling Places. Amend RSA 658 by inserting after section 9-a the following new section:
658:9-b Use of Public Buildings as Polling Places.
I. Upon request by the selectmen of a town or the ward officers of a city ward, any town- or city-owned facility within the town or ward, including schools, town halls, fire stations, or other municipal or school district property, that is of sufficient size and accessibility to meet the requirements of RSA 658:9, shall be made available for use as a polling place for all elections, including state, federal, and municipal elections.
II. When designated as a polling place, such facility shall be reserved as necessary to ensure the conduct of the election and the free and convenient access of voters, election officials, and equipment, while permitting the continuation of normal governmental or educational operations, including emergency response and public safety services.
III. The municipality shall be responsible for reasonable costs directly related to such use, including custodial services, utilities, and security, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.
2 Effective Date. This act shall take effect 60 days after its passage.
Text to be added highlighted in green.
1 New Section; Use of Public Buildings as Polling Places. Amend RSA 658 by inserting after section 9-a the following new section:
658:9-b Use of Public Buildings as Polling Places.
I. Upon request by the selectmen of a town or the ward officers of a city ward, any town- or city-owned facility within the town or ward, including schools, town halls, fire stations, or other municipal or school district property, that is of sufficient size and accessibility to meet the requirements of RSA 658:9, shall be made available for use as a polling place for all elections, including state, federal, and municipal elections.
II. When designated as a polling place, such facility shall be reserved as necessary to ensure the conduct of the election and the free and convenient access of voters, election officials, and equipment, while permitting the continuation of normal governmental or educational operations, including emergency response and public safety services.
III. The municipality shall be responsible for reasonable costs directly related to such use, including custodial services, utilities, and security, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.
2 Effective Date. This act shall take effect 60 days after its passage.