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Josh Becker
Senator | Menlo Park, CA

Expanded Protections for Election Workers

Idea Category: Defending Democracy

2023 Ideas Challenge Entry

California Senator Josh Becker introduced SB 485 aimed at restore voters' confidence in the electoral process by addressing the surge in aggression from voters who refuse to accept election outcomes. The bill will expand the existing felony of interfering with election officials, voters, and the voting process to protect temporary election workers. Additionally, this legislation will broaden the definition of "voting at an election" to encompass in-person voting at polling places, the office of the election official, satellite locations, and voting by mail.

Temporary workers, who often play critical roles in election administration, deserve the same level of protection as other election officials. Ensuring their safety while carrying out their duties is crucial to maintaining the efficient functioning of elections. The bill's broader definition of "voting at an election" is equally significant and encompasses various voting methods, including in-person voting at polling places, the office of the election official, satellite locations, and voting by mail."

Impact

By providing a stronger legal framework to hold those who engage in disruptive and aggressive behavior accountable, victims have more recourse, and individuals who commit such offenses will face appropriate consequences. The bill's effectiveness will be tracked through the number of reported incidents using data from the Secretary of State’s Election Voter Complaint Portal. Becker is hopeful that the bill will ultimately decrease any violence or aggression directed toward election workers.