Elections Code — Part 2 | ELEC — United States — California law | Esheria

Elections Code

Part 2 of 12 · provisions 201–400

This act is known as the Elections Code.

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The Office of Elections Cybersecurity is created and must coordinate election cybersecurity work, develop best practices, share threat information, and help counter false or misleading election-related information. If a voter cannot personally enter the information required by Section 100, the voter may ask someone else to print the voter’s name and residence, but the voter must personally make a mark or sign, and that mark or signature must be witnessed by one person who signs their name. A person may vote in a local, special, or consolidated election if registered in one of the precincts that make up those election precincts and if voting is in accordance with this code. Statewide special elections must be called, conducted, and canvassed under the same rules as general elections, unless another law specifically says otherwise. A city or district may ask the county board of supervisors to let the county elections official provide election services, and the request must be by resolution.

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Provisions of Elections Code

Showing 200 of 2,352

  1. 11102.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Each section of a recall petition must be filed with the county elections official for the county where it was circulated.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11102. Each section of a recall petition shall be filed with the elections official of the county for which it was circulated. (Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 156, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2005.)
  2. 11103.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Recall petition sections must be filed by the proponents or by someone they authorize in writing, and each filing by an authorized person must include a copy of that authorization for the elections official.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11103. Each section of the petition shall be filed by the proponents or by any person or persons authorized, in writing, by a proponent. Each time an authorized person or persons files a section or sections of a petition, a copy of the written authorization shall be submitted to the elections official. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 714, Sec. 12. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  3. 11104.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official must report recall-petition signature information to the Secretary of State every 30 days after a recall begins, and may do so more often. The official must also attach and file the required form each 30-day period, but does not have to verify signatures until submitted signatures reach 10% of the number needed to qualify the recall.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11104. (a) The elections official, 30 days after a recall has been initiated and every 30 days thereafter, or more frequently at the discretion of the elections official, shall report to the Secretary of State all of the following: (1) The number of signatures submitted on the recall petition sections for the period ending five days previously, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. (2) The cumulative total of all signatures received since the time the recall was initiated and through the period ending five days previously, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. (3) The number of valid signatures, verified pursuant to subdivision (b), submitted during the previous reporting period, and of valid signatures verified during the current reporting period. (4) The cumulative total of all valid signatures received since the time the recall was initiated and ending five days previously, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. (b) Signatures shall be verified in the same manner set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 9031. (c) The elections official, at the end of each 30-day period, shall attach to the petition a form provided by the Secretary of State, properly dated, that includes the information required by subdivision (a), and submit a copy of the petition, except as to the signatures appended thereto, to the Secretary of State and file a copy of the form in his or her office. (d) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) and (b), and Section 11106, the elections official shall not be required to verify signatures on a recall petition until the signatures submitted equal at least 10 percent of the total signatures required to qualify the recall for the ballot, as determined by the Secretary of State. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2017, Ch. 180, Sec. 6. (SB 117) Effective August 24, 2017.)
  4. 11106.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official must verify remaining recall petition signatures after the signature-submission deadline, and in some cases must finish verification within 30 days of filing the petition.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11106. (a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), immediately after the deadline for submission of all signatures, the elections official shall verify any remaining signatures in the same manner set forth in subdivision (b) of Section 9031. This verification shall apply to all signatures submitted to each county elections official. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of this section and subdivision (b) of Section 9031, the elections official shall complete the verification of signatures within 30 days from the date of filing of the petition, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, if the Secretary of State determines that the time reasonably needed to complete the 60-day verification process described in subdivision (b) of Section 9031 and the procedures described in Sections 11108, 11109, and 11110, could cause the recall election to be ineligible for consolidation with the next regularly scheduled election, as permitted by Section 15 of Article II of the California Constitution. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 870, Sec. 5. (SB 386) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  5. 11107.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    After each examination, the elections official must promptly attach a dated certificate showing the result, send a copy of the petition to the Secretary of State without the signatures, and file a copy of the certificate in the official’s office.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11107. The elections official, upon the completion of each examination, shall forthwith attach to the petition a certificate, properly dated, showing the result of the examination, and submit a copy of the petition, except as to the signatures appended thereto, to the Secretary of State and file a copy of the certificate in his or her office. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 714, Sec. 17. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  6. 11108.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets deadlines for notifying officials, withdrawing recall signatures, reporting withdrawals, estimating recall election costs, and publishing the cost estimate.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11108. (a) When the Secretary of State has received from one or more county elections officials a petition certified to have been signed by a sufficient number of registered voters to initiate a recall election, the Secretary of State shall, within 10 days, notify each county elections official of that fact. (b) Notwithstanding any other law, any voter who has signed a recall petition under this chapter shall have the voter’s signature withdrawn from the petition upon the voter filing a written request that includes the voter’s name, residence address, and signature with the elections official within 30 business days of the Secretary of State’s notice provided by subdivision (a). (c) No later than 10 business days after the withdrawal period provided by subdivision (b), the elections officials shall report to the Secretary of State the total number of signatures that have been withdrawn pursuant to subdivision (b). The Secretary of State shall promptly make a second preliminary determination of whether the petitions have been signed by the sufficient number of registered voters to initiate a recall election. If the petitions have not been signed by a sufficient number of registered voters, the Secretary of State shall notify the county elections officials to continue to verify signatures pursuant to Section 11104. The Secretary of State and elections officials shall continue to make the notifications and reports required by this section until such time as the Secretary of State determines that there is a sufficient number of verified signatures, not including withdrawn signatures, to initiate a recall election. (d) Upon receipt of the notification from the Secretary of State required in subdivision (c) that there is a sufficient number of verified signatures, not including withdrawn signatures, to initiate a recall election, the Department of Finance shall, in consultation with the affected elections officials and the Secretary of State, estimate the costs of the recall election, including expenses for verifying signatures, printing ballots and voter information guides, and operating polling places. The Department shall estimate the costs that would be incurred if (1) the recall election is held as a special election and (2) the recall election is consolidated with the next regularly scheduled election pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 15 of Article II of the California Constitution. Within 30 business days of receipt of the Secretary of State’s notice of sufficient signatures to initiate a recall required by subdivision (c), the Department of Finance shall submit the estimate to the Governor, the Secretary of State, and the Chairperson of the Joint Legislative Budget Committee. (e) Notwithstanding any other law, the Secretary of State shall not certify the sufficiency of the signatures under Section 11109 until the Department of Finance has submitted the estimate required by subdivision (d) and either of the following has occurred: (1) The Joint Legislative Budget Committee has had 30 days to review and comment on the estimate submitted by the Department of Finance pursuant to subdivision (d). (2) The Legislature has appropriated funds that it determines are reasonably necessary to conduct the recall election and has designated funds for that purpose in the Budget Act or in another statute. (f) The Secretary of State shall publish a copy of the estimate submitted by the Department of Finance on the Secretary of State’s public internet website no later than 21 business days after the day that the Secretary of State certifies the sufficiency of the signatures under Section 11109. (g) After the Secretary of State has certified the sufficiency of the signatures under Section 11109, the Director of Finance, or the director’s designee, shall direct the Controller to remit to the elections official from those funds designated for that purpose in any budget act or other statute an amount that takes into consideration the amount of funds available for the purpose, the number of elections officials expected to conduct state recall elections held in that fiscal year, the Department of Finance’s estimates of the costs of each elections official to conduct each state recall election, and the amount reasonably necessary to conduct such recall election. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 34, Sec. 3. (SB 152) Effective June 28, 2021.)
  7. 11109.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If the Secretary of State determines the proponents have collected enough signatures, the Secretary of State must certify that fact to the Governor.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11109. When the Secretary of State determines that the proponents have collected sufficient signatures, he or she shall certify that fact to the Governor. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 714, Sec. 19. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  8. 11110.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    After the Secretary of State certifies sufficient recall petitions, the Governor must publish notice of the election, and election officers must make all arrangements for it.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Recall of State Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11100 - 11110] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11110. Upon receiving certification of the sufficiency of the recall petitions from the Secretary of State, the Governor shall make or cause to be made publication of notice for the holding of the election. Officers charged by law with duties concerning elections shall make all arrangements for the election. The election shall be conducted, returned, and the results declared, in all respects as are other state elections. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 714, Sec. 20. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  9. 11200.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11200 - 11201] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This chapter applies to the recall of local officers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11200 - 11201] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11200. This chapter shall apply to the recall of local officers. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  10. 11201.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11200 - 11201] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If the city or county elections official is the officer being recalled, another person designated by the governing board must perform that official’s duties.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11200 - 11201] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11201. When the city or county elections official is the officer sought to be recalled, the duties imposed upon him or her shall be performed by some other person designated by the governing board. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  11. 11220.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A recall petition must be filed with the elections official within a deadline that depends on the number of registered voters.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11220. (a) A recall petition shall be submitted to the elections official for filing in his or her office during normal office hours as posted within the following number of days after the clerk or, in the case of a recall of a state officer, the Secretary of State, notifies the proponents that the form and wording of the petition meets the requirements of Article 3 (commencing with Section 11040) of Chapter 1: (1) Forty days if the electoral jurisdiction has less than 1,000 registered voters. (2) Sixty days if the electoral jurisdiction has less than 5,000 registered voters but at least 1,000. (3) Ninety days if the electoral jurisdiction has less than 10,000 registered voters but at least 5,000. (4) One hundred twenty days if the electoral jurisdiction has less than 50,000 registered voters but at least 10,000. (5) One hundred sixty days if the electoral jurisdiction has 50,000 registered voters or more. (b) For purposes of this section, the number of registered voters shall be that which was reported at the last report of registration by the county elections official to the Secretary of State pursuant to Section 2187 and prior to a finding of the elections official or Secretary of State that no alterations are required in the form of the recall petition pursuant to Section 11042. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  12. 11221.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets the signature thresholds needed to qualify a recall for the ballot.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11221. The number of qualified signatures required in order to qualify a recall for the ballot shall be as follows: (a) In the case of an officer of a city, county, school district, community college district, county board of education, or resident voting district, but not including a judge of a superior court, the number of signatures shall be equal in number to not less than the following percent of the registered voters in the electoral jurisdiction: (1) Thirty percent if the registration is less than 1,000. (2) Twenty-five percent if the registration is less than 10,000 but at least 1,000. (3) Twenty percent if the registration is less than 50,000 but at least 10,000. (4) Fifteen percent if the registration is less than 100,000 but at least 50,000. (5) Ten percent if the registration is 100,000 or above. (b) For purposes of this section, the number of registered voters shall be calculated as of the time of the last report of registration by the county elections official to the Secretary of State pursuant to Section 2187, and prior to the finding by the elections official or Secretary of State that no alterations are required in the form of the recall petition pursuant to Section 11042. (c) (1) In the case of a state officer, including a judge of a court of appeal, and in the case of a judge of a superior court, the number of signatures shall be as provided for in subdivision (b) of Section 14 of Article II of the California Constitution. In the case of a judge of a superior court, which office has never appeared on the ballot since its creation, or did not appear on the ballot at its last election pursuant to Section 8203, the number of signatures shall be as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 14 of Article II of the California Constitution, except that the percentage shall be based on the number of votes cast within the judicial jurisdiction for the countywide office which had the least number of votes in the most recent general election in the county in which the judge holds office. (2) For purposes of this subdivision, “countywide office” means an elective office wholly within the county which is voted on throughout the county. (d) In the case of a landowner voting district, signatures of voters owning at least 10 percent of the assessed value of land within the electoral jurisdiction of the officer sought to be recalled. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 304, Sec. 8. (AB 1513) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  13. 11222.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Recall petition proponents must file all petition sections together, and the elections official must count signatures and accept the petition if it appears to meet the minimum signature requirement.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11222. (a) The petition shall be filed by the proponents, or by any person or persons authorized, in writing, by a proponent. All sections of the petition shall be filed at the same time. (b) When the petition is presented for filing, the elections official shall determine the total number of signatures affixed to the petition. If, from this examination, the elections official determines that the number of signatures, prima facie, equals or is in excess of the minimum number of signatures required, the elections official shall accept the petition for filing. The petition shall be deemed as filed on that date. A section of the petition not so filed is void for all purposes. If, from the elections official’s examination, the elections official determines that the number of signatures, prima facie, does not equal or exceed the minimum number of signatures required, the official shall not take further action. (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 58, Sec. 12. (AB 3259) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  14. 11223.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If a recall petition was circulated in more than one county, each county’s elections official must attach the county voter-number information to the examination certificate.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11223. If the petition was circulated in more than one county, the elections official of each county shall affix, with the certificate showing the results of his or her examination, the number of registered voters of the county residing within the electoral jurisdiction of the officer sought to be recalled. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  15. 11224.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official must review a recall petition, verify voter signatures, and certify whether it is sufficient or insufficient.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11224. (a) Except as provided in Section 11225, within 30 days from the date of filing of the petition, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, the elections official shall examine the petition, and from the records of registration, ascertain whether or not the petition is signed by the requisite number of voters. If the elections official’s examination shows that the number of valid signatures is greater than the required number, the elections official shall certify the petition to be sufficient. If the number of valid signatures is less than the required number, the elections official shall certify the petition to be insufficient. (b) In determining the number of valid signatures, the elections official may check the signatures against facsimiles of voters’ signatures, provided that the method of preparing and displaying the facsimiles complies with law. (c) The elections official shall attach to the petition a certificate showing the result of this examination, and shall notify the proponents of either the sufficiency or insufficiency of the petition. (d) If the petition is found sufficient, the elections official shall certify the results of the examination to the governing board at its next regular meeting. (Amended by Stats. 2015, Ch. 728, Sec. 81. (AB 1020) Effective January 1, 2016. Operative September 26, 2016, when the Secretary of State issued the certification prescribed by Stats. 2015, Ch. 728, Sec. 88.)
  16. 11225.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official may use random sampling to verify recall petition signatures, and must certify, notify, and report the results based on the verification outcome.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11225. (a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), within 60 days from the date of filing of the petition, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, if, from the examination of petitions pursuant to Section 11222, more than 500 signatures have been signed on the petition, the elections official may use a random sampling technique for verification of signatures. The random sample of signatures to be verified shall be drawn in a manner so that every signature filed with the elections official shall have an equal opportunity to be included in the sample. The random sampling shall include an examination of at least 500 or 5 percent of the signatures, whichever is greater. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the elections official shall complete the verification of signatures within 30 days from the date of filing of the petition, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, if the elections official determines that the time reasonably needed to complete the 60-day verification process described in subdivision (a) and any other procedures required for qualifying the measure for the ballot could cause the recall election to be ineligible for consolidation with the next regularly scheduled election, as provided in subdivision (b) of Section 11242. (c) If the statistical sampling shows that the number of valid signatures is greater than 110 percent of the required number, the elections official shall certify the petition to be sufficient. (d) If the statistical sampling shows that the number of valid signatures is within 90 to 110 percent of the number of signatures of qualified voters needed to declare the petition sufficient, the elections official shall examine and verify each signature filed. If the elections official’s examination of each signature shows that the number of valid signatures is greater than the required number, the elections official shall certify the petition to be sufficient. If the number of valid signatures is less than the required number, the elections official shall certify the petition to be insufficient. (e) If the statistical sampling shows that the number of valid signatures is less than 90 percent of the required number, the elections official shall certify the petition to be insufficient. (f) In determining from the records of registration the number of valid signatures signed on the petition, the elections official may check the signatures against facsimiles of voters’ signatures, provided that the method of preparing and displaying the facsimiles complies with law. (g) The elections official shall attach to the petition, a certificate showing the result of this examination, and shall notify the proponents of either the sufficiency or insufficiency of the petition. (h) If the petition is found insufficient, no action shall be taken on the petition. However, the failure to secure sufficient signatures does not preclude the filing later of an entirely new petition to the same effect. (i) If the petition is found to be sufficient, the elections official shall certify the results of the examination to the governing body at its next regular meeting. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 870, Sec. 6. (SB 386) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  17. 11226.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the certificate shows a recall petition is insufficient, no action may be taken on it and it must remain on file.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11226. If the certificate shows that the petition is insufficient, no action shall be taken on it, but the petition shall remain on file. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  18. 11227.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the elections official finds the petition signatures sufficient, the official must submit a certificate of sufficiency to the governing body at its next regular meeting.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Recall Petitions [11220 - 11227] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11227. If the elections official finds the signatures on the petition to be sufficient, he or she shall submit his or her certificate as to the sufficiency of the petition to the governing body at its next regular meeting. The certificate shall contain: (a) The name of the officer whose recall is sought. (b) The title of his or her office. (c) The number of signatures required by law. (d) The total number of signatures on the petition. (e) The number of valid signatures on the petition. (f) The number of signatures which were disqualified. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  19. 11240.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. The Recall Election [11240 - 11242] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    The governing body must issue an order within 14 days after receiving the certificate of sufficiency, stating that a recall election will be held.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. The Recall Election [11240 - 11242] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11240. Within 14 days after the meeting at which the governing body received the certificate of sufficiency as specified in Section 11227, the governing body shall issue an order stating that an election shall be held pursuant to this article to determine whether or not the officer named in the petition shall be recalled. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  20. 11241.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. The Recall Election [11240 - 11242] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the governing board misses the deadline in Section 11240, the county elections official must set the election date within five days. If the recall will be voted on in more than one county, the election date is set by the county with the most registered voters involved, in consultation with the other counties’ elections officials.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. The Recall Election [11240 - 11242] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11241. If the governing board fails to issue the order within the time specified in Section 11240, the county elections official, within five days, shall set the date for holding the election. If the recall is to be voted on by voters in more than one county, the elections official of the county with the largest number of registered voters who will be voting in the election shall set the date for holding the election in consultation with the elections officials of the other counties. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  21. 11242.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. The Recall Election [11240 - 11242] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    A recall election must be held 88 to 125 days after the order is issued, unless it is conducted within 180 days so it can be consolidated with a regularly scheduled election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Recall of Local Officers: Intermediate Steps in the Recall [11200 - 11242] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. The Recall Election [11240 - 11242] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11242. (a) The election shall be held not less than 88, nor more than 125, days after the issuance of the order. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the election may be conducted within 180 days after the issuance of the order so that the election may be consolidated with a regularly scheduled election. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 791, Sec. 6. (AB 2584) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  22. 11300.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    An insufficiency in a petition against an officer does not stop a later petition against that officer from being filed.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11300. No insufficiency in a petition against any officer shall bar the later filing of a new petition against that officer. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  23. 11301.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a petition is found insufficient, the petition signatures may be examined under the referenced Government Code procedure.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11301. If a petition is found insufficient by the elections official or, in the case of the recall of a state officer, the Secretary of State, the petition signatures may be examined in accordance with Section Article 2 (commencing with Section 7924.100) of Chapter 2 of Part 5 of Division 10 of Title 1 of the Government Code. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 615, Sec. 97. (AB 474) Effective January 1, 2022. Operative January 1, 2023, pursuant to Sec. 463 of Stats. 2021, Ch. 615.)
  24. 11302.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a vacancy happens after a recall petition is filed, the recall election generally continues unless the signature check shows too few or no signatures. County elections officials must immediately verify the petition signatures as of the vacancy date.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11302. (a) Except as described in paragraph (3) of subdivision (b), if a vacancy occurs in an office after a recall petition is filed against the vacating officer, the recall election shall nevertheless proceed. (b) (1) Upon the occurrence of the vacancy, the elections official for each county in which a section of the recall petition has been filed shall immediately verify the signatures on the petition submitted to the elections official as of the date of the vacancy. (2) If the elections official verifies that a sufficient number of signatures were filed as of the date of the vacancy, the recall election shall proceed. (3) If the elections official verifies that an insufficient number of signatures, or no signatures, were filed as of the date of the vacancy, the recall election shall not proceed and a vacancy in the office that is the subject of the recall election shall be filled as otherwise provided by law. (4) A person who was subject to a recall petition may not be appointed to fill the vacancy in the office that he or she vacated and that person may not be appointed to fill any other vacancy in office on the same governing board for the duration of the term of office of the seat that he or she vacated. (Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 591, Sec. 3. (AB 1311) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  25. 11303.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    A voter who signed a recall petition can have that signature withdrawn if they file a written request with the elections official in time and include the required identifying details.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [11300 - 11303] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11303. A voter who has signed a recall petition shall have their signature withdrawn from the petition upon filing a written request that includes the name or title of the petition and the voter’s name, residence address, and signature with the elections official prior to the day the petition section bearing the voter’s signature is filed. A written request made under this section shall not constitute a petition or paper for purposes of Section 104. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 166, Sec. 4. (AB 2967) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  26. 11320.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    On recall-election ballots, an eligible recalled officer may choose to show party preference; if so, the officer must tell the Secretary of State by the Section 11023 answer deadline, and the Secretary of State must share that choice with county elections officials.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11320. The following shall appear on the ballots at every recall election, except in the case of a landowner voting district, with respect to each officer sought to be recalled: (a) The question “Shall [name of officer sought to be recalled] be recalled (removed) from the office of [title of office]?” (b) Next to the foregoing question, the words “Yes” and “No” on separate lines with a voting target next to each. (c) If the officer sought to be recalled holds a voter-nominated office, the officer may elect to have the officer’s party preference identified on the ballot. The officer shall inform the Secretary of State whether the officer elects to have a party preference identified on the ballot by the deadline for the officer to file an answer with the Secretary of State pursuant to Section 11023. The Secretary of State shall disseminate this information to all appropriate county elections officials. The statement of party preference shall appear immediately to the right of and on the same line as the officer’s name, or immediately below the officer’s name if there is not sufficient space to the right of the officer’s name, and shall appear in substantially the following form: (1) If the officer stated a political party preference on the officer’s affidavit of registration, the statement shall read: “Party Preference:____” (inserting the name of the qualified political party stated on the affidavit of registration.) The listed political party preference shall be the political party preference stated on the officer’s affidavit of registration at the time the notice of intention is filed with the elections official pursuant to Section 11021. (2) If the officer did not state a political party preference on the officer’s affidavit of registration, the statement shall read: “Party Preference: None.” (3) If the officer elects not to have the officer’s political party preference identified on the ballot, or if the officer fails to inform the Secretary of State whether the officer elects to have a party preference identified on the ballot by the deadline for the officer to file an answer with the Secretary of State, the statement of party preference shall not appear on the ballot. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 10. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  27. 11322.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    Recall election ballots for state officers must include the successor candidates’ names and, after each candidate list, one blank line with a voting target next to it.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11322. In addition to the material contained in Section 11320, the following shall appear on ballots at all recall elections for state officers: (a) The names of the candidates nominated to succeed the officer sought to be recalled shall appear under each recall question. (b) Following each list of candidates, the ballot shall provide one blank line with a voting target next to it. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 11. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  28. 11322.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    In a recall election for a state officer, the ballot must include added instructions, and the elections official writes the exact wording to fit the ballot layout.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11322.5. (a) (1) In a recall election for a state officer, additional instructions shall be added to the ballot to communicate the following information: (A) That there are two contests on the ballot. (B) That the two contests are separate and can be voted on independently. (2) For purposes of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (1), the following instructions are recommended: “You can vote for the recall question regardless of whether you vote for a replacement candidate. You can vote for a replacement candidate regardless of whether or how you vote on the recall question.” (b) The exact wording of the instructions shall be written by the elections official to conform to the actions required by the layout of the ballot. (Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 12. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  29. 11323.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    A voter must mark a recall ballot by completely selecting the voting target next to either “Yes” or “No.”

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11323. A voter shall indicate, by completely selecting the voting target next to either “Yes” or “No,” their vote for or against the recall proposal, respectively. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 13. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  30. 11324.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    The official preparing the ballot must mail a voter information guide to each registered voter at least 10 days before the recall election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11324. (a) The official responsible for preparing the ballot shall, at least 10 days before the recall election, mail a voter information guide to each registered voter of the electoral jurisdiction of the officer sought to be recalled. (b) In the case of a recall of a state officer, the official responsible for preparing the voter information guide pursuant to subdivision (a) shall include in the voter information guide the report of estimated costs of the recall prepared by the Department of Finance pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 11108. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2017, Ch. 180, Sec. 13. (SB 117) Effective August 24, 2017.)
  31. 11325.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    With the voter information guide, a printed copy of the recall statement and any answer filed must be mailed for each officer whose recall is sought.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11325. (a) With the voter information guide there shall be mailed, for each officer whose recall is sought, a printed copy of the following: (1) The statement of reasons for recall that appeared on the notice of intent to recall that was filed by the proponents of the recall with the elections official or, in the case of a state officer, with the Secretary of State. (2) The answer to the statement of reasons for recall that was filed by the officer whose recall is sought with the elections official or, in the case of a state officer, with the Secretary of State, if an answer was filed. (b) The printed copies of the statement and the answer to that statement shall be mailed with the voter information guide either in a document separate from the voter information guide or as part of the voter information guide. Both the statement and answer shall be printed on the same page, or on facing pages of the document, and shall be of equal prominence. (c) If the recall of more than one officer is sought, the statement and answer for each officer shall be printed together and shall be clearly distinguished from those of any other officer. (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 269, Sec. 4. (AB 3258) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  32. 11327.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    An officer whose recall is being sought may file a statement with the elections official.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Ballots [11320 - 11327] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11327. An officer whose recall is being sought may file a statement with the elections official in accordance with Section 13307, to be sent to each voter, together with the voter information guide. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 59. (AB 2911) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  33. 11328.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Elections in General [11328 - 11329] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    A recall election must be conducted, canvassed, and its results declared in substantially the same way as a regular election for the office.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Elections in General [11328 - 11329] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11328. A recall election shall be conducted, canvassed, and the results declared in substantially the manner provided by law for a regular election for the office. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  34. 11329.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Elections in General [11328 - 11329] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    One election is enough to recall several officers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Elections in General [11328 - 11329] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 11329. One election is sufficient for the recall of several officers. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  35. 11381.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. )

    Verify source ↗

    Recall-election candidate nominations generally follow regular-election rules, with specific timing exceptions for state officers and a ban on the recalled person running to succeed themselves.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. ) ## 11381. Nominations of candidates to succeed the recalled officer shall be made in the manner prescribed for nominating a candidate to that office in a regular election insofar as that procedure is consistent with this article. The following exceptions shall be made to that procedure: (a) For recalls of state officers, the nomination papers and the declaration of candidacy shall, in each case, be filed no less than 59 days prior to the date of the election and not before the day the order of the election is issued. The Secretary of State shall certify the names of the candidates to be placed on the ballot by the 55th day prior to the election. (b) No person whose recall is being sought may be a candidate to succeed himself or herself at a recall election. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 790, Sec. 3. (AB 2582) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  36. 11382.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a recall of a local officer passes with a majority “Yes” vote, the officer is removed, the office stays vacant until filled according to law, and the recalled officer may not be appointed to fill that vacancy.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. ) ## 11382. There shall not be an election for a successor in a recall of a local officer pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 11200). If a majority of the votes on a recall proposal for a local officer are “Yes”, the officer is removed and the office shall be vacant until it is filled according to law, provided that the officer who was the subject of the recall election shall not be appointed to fill the vacancy in that office. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 251, Sec. 1. (AB 94) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  37. 11383.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. )

    Verify source ↗

    If at least half of the votes in a recall election are “No,” the officer being recalled stays in office.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. ) ## 11383. If one-half or more of the votes at a recall election are “No”, the officer sought to be recalled shall continue in office. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  38. 11384.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a recall proposal gets a majority of “Yes” votes, the officer being recalled must be removed from office when the successor is qualified, except as Section 11382 provides.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. ) ## 11384. Except as provided in Section 11382, if a majority of the votes on a recall proposal are “Yes”, the officer sought to be recalled shall be removed from office upon the qualification of the officer’s successor. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 790, Sec. 5. (AB 2582) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  39. 11385.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a state officer is recalled at a recall election, the candidate with the most votes for that office is declared elected for the remainder of the recalled officer’s term.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. ) ## 11385. If a state officer is recalled at a recall election, the candidate receiving the highest number of votes for the office shall be declared elected for the unexpired term of the recalled officer. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 251, Sec. 2. (AB 94) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  40. 11386.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the top vote-getter in a recall election for a state officer does not qualify within 10 days after getting the certificate of election, the office becomes vacant and must be filled according to law.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 11. RECALL ELECTIONS [11000 - 11386] ( Division 11 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. General Procedures: Final Steps in the Recall [11300 - 11386] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Recall Elections [11381 - 11386] ( Heading of Article 4 repealed (by Sec. 68) and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 69. ) ## 11386. If the candidate who received the highest number of votes in a recall election for a state officer fails to qualify within 10 days after receiving the certificate of election, the office to which the candidate was elected shall become vacant and shall be filled according to law. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 790, Sec. 7. (AB 2582) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  41. 12.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 0.5. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS [1 - 362] ( Division 0.5 heading added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 17. ) ## CHAPTER 1 General Provisions [1. - 21] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    A candidate who files candidacy papers must appoint the Secretary of State or county elections official as an attorney for service of process, and that appointment lasts until election day.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 0.5. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS [1 - 362] ( Division 0.5 heading added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 17. ) ## CHAPTER 1 General Provisions [1. - 21] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12. Whenever any candidate files a declaration of candidacy, nomination paper, or any other paper evidencing an intention to be a candidate for any public office at any election in this state with either the Secretary of State or a county elections official, the candidate shall by the filing irrevocably appoint the Secretary of State or the county elections official with whom the filing is made, and their successors in office, the candidate’s attorneys upon whom all process in any action or proceeding against the candidate concerning the candidacy or the election laws may be served with the same effect as if the candidate had been lawfully served with process. The appointment shall continue until the day of the election. If in any action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with any matters concerning the candidate’s candidacy or the election laws it is shown by affidavit to the satisfaction of a court or judge that personal service of process against the candidate cannot be made with the exercise of due diligence, the court or judge may make an order that the service be made upon the candidate by delivering by hand to the Secretary of State or the county elections official appointed as the candidate’s attorney for service of process, or to any person employed in the office of the Secretary of State or the county elections official in the capacity of assistant or deputy, one copy of the process for the defendant to be served, together with a copy of the order authorizing the service. Service in this manner constitutes personal service upon the candidate. The Secretary of State and the county elections officials of all counties shall keep a record of all process served upon them under this section, and shall record therein the time of service and their action with reference thereto. Upon the receipt of service of process the Secretary of State or the county elections official shall immediately give notice of the service of the process to the candidate by forwarding the copy of the process to the candidate at the address shown on the candidate’s declaration, nomination paper, affidavit, or other evidence of intention to be a candidate filed with that officer, by certified mail with request for return receipt. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 304, Sec. 1. (AB 1513) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  42. 1200.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Statewide Elections [1200 - 1202] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    The statewide general election must be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each even-numbered year.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Statewide Elections [1200 - 1202] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1200. The statewide general election shall be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each even-numbered year. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 21. Effective September 30, 1996.)
  43. 12000.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Proclamations And Election Orders [12000 - 12001] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    For each statewide election, the Governor must issue a proclamation calling the election and send copies to county boards of supervisors.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Proclamations And Election Orders [12000 - 12001] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12000. For each statewide election, the Governor shall issue a proclamation calling the election. The proclamation shall be issued by the Governor under his or her hand and the Great Seal of the state no later than the 148th day prior to the election and shall state the time of the election and the offices, if any, to be filled. Copies of the proclamation shall be transmitted by the Governor to the boards of supervisors of the counties. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  44. 12001.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Proclamations And Election Orders [12000 - 12001] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    For a special local election, the local agency’s governing body must issue a proclamation or resolution calling the election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Proclamations And Election Orders [12000 - 12001] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12001. For a special local election, the governing body of the local agency shall issue a proclamation or a resolution calling the election. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  45. 1201.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Statewide Elections [1200 - 1202] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    The statewide direct primary must be held on a specified Tuesday in June or March, depending on whether the even-numbered year is divisible by four.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Statewide Elections [1200 - 1202] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1201. The statewide direct primary shall be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in June of each even-numbered year that is not evenly divisible by four and on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in March in each even-numbered year that is evenly divisible by four. (Amended by Stats. 2020, Ch. 111, Sec. 6. (SB 970) Effective January 1, 2021.)
  46. 1202.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Statewide Elections [1200 - 1202] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    In years divisible by four, the presidential primary must be consolidated with the statewide direct primary, and the consolidated primary must be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in March.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Statewide Elections [1200 - 1202] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1202. The presidential primary shall be consolidated with the statewide direct primary in any year that is evenly divisible by four, and the consolidated primary shall be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in March. (Amended by Stats. 2020, Ch. 111, Sec. 7. (SB 970) Effective January 1, 2021.)
  47. 12101.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The city elections official must publish a notice of a municipal election within a specific pre-election window, include required information, and use a posted typewritten notice if no newspaper of general circulation is available.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12101. (a) Not earlier than the 127th nor later than the 113th day before any municipal election to fill offices, the city elections official shall publish a notice of the election in the city pursuant to Section 6061 of the Government Code. The notice shall be headed “Notice of Election,” and shall contain a statement of: (1) The time of the election. (2) The offices to be filled, specifying full term or short term, as the case may be. (b) With respect to a special election to fill a vacancy in office, unless the city has enacted an ordinance as referred to in subdivision (d) of Section 10229, and the ordinance does not allow for appointment to fill the vacancy and requires the vacancy to be filled in the special election, the notice shall also state that if no one or only one person is nominated for an elected office, appointment to the elective office may be made as prescribed by Section 10229. If there is no newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the city, the notice shall be typewritten and copies shall be posted conspicuously within the time prescribed in at least three public places in the city. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  48. 12102.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The notice of a municipal election must be substantially in the prescribed form.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12102. The notice of the municipal election shall be substantially in the following form: Notice is hereby given that a ____ (general or special) municipal election will be held in the ____ of ____ on ____, the ____ day of ____, 20__, for the following officers: (name them). The polls will be open between the hours of __ m. and __ m. City Elections Official Dated, _______, ___. (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 58, Sec. 13. (AB 3259) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  49. 12103.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Secretary of State must send county elections officials two notices before the direct primary, one 158 days before and one 125 days before.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12103. At least 158 days before the direct primary, the Secretary of State shall prepare and transmit to each county elections official a notice designating all the offices, except those of county officers and judges, for which candidates are to be nominated. At least 125 days before the direct primary election, the Secretary of State shall prepare and transmit to each county elections official a notice designating the political parties qualified to participate in the primary. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  50. 12104.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Secretary of State must issue election notices in substantially the prescribed form for candidate nominations and for the political parties qualified to participate in the direct primary.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12104. (a) A notice designating the offices for which candidates are to be nominated shall be in substantially the following form: ## NOTICE BY SECRETARY OF STATE OF OFFICES FOR WHICH CANDIDATES ARE TO BE NOMINATED AT THE DIRECT PRIMARY Secretary of State Sacramento,__. 20 __. To the County Elections Official of the County of ____: Notice is hereby given that the offices for which candidates are to be nominated at the primary election to be held on the ____ day of___, 20__, together with the names of the political parties qualified to participate in the election, are as follows: STATE AND DISTRICT OFFICES CONGRESSIONAL OFFICES LEGISLATIVE OFFICES Notice is also hereby given that at the primary election, candi– dates are to be nominated for the following office: SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION Notice is also hereby given that at the primary election, in the county first above mentioned, candidates are to be nominated for any county offices or judicial offices to which candidates are to be elected at the ensuing general election; And notice is also hereby given that at the primary election there shall be elected in each county a county central committee for each political party above named pursuant to Division 7 (commencing with Section 7000) of the Elections Code. _____ (seal) _____ Secretary of State (b) The notice designating the political parties qualified to participate in this election for nomination of candidates shall be in substantially the following form: ## NOTICE BY SECRETARY OF STATE OF POLITICAL PARTIES QUALIFIED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE DIRECT PRIMARY ELECTION Secretary of State Sacramento, __. 20__. To the County Elections Official of the County of ____: Notice is hereby given that the political parties qualified to participate in this election for nomination of candidates to partisan offices are as follows: _____ (seal) _____ Secretary of State (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 58, Sec. 14. (AB 3259) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  51. 12105.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The elections official must publish the polling-place list at least one week before the election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12105. (a) The elections official shall, not less than one week before the election, publish the list of the polling places designated for each election precinct. (b) Publication shall be pursuant to Section 6061 of the Government Code in the jurisdiction where the election is to be held and in any newspaper of general circulation designated by the elections official. If there is no newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the jurisdiction, the list shall be typewritten and copies shall be posted conspicuously within the time prescribed in at least three public places within the city. (Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 201, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  52. 12105.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The elections official must post and maintain specified polling-place and precinct board party-preference lists on a set schedule, and provide copies at cost on request.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12105.5. (a) Not less than one week before the election, the elections official shall post a list of all current polling places in each precinct and a list of political party preference of precinct board members appointed by the 15th day before the election. This list shall not include the names of the precinct board members. Not later than 28 days after the election, the elections official shall post an updated list of the political party preferences of precinct board members who actually served on election day. The election official shall post these lists in their office and on their official website, if any. (b) In each jurisdiction in which the election official determines that the public interest, convenience, and necessity requires the local posting of polling places, the elections official shall divide and distribute the lists for posting in any city clerk’s office within the jurisdiction having the election. (c) Each list required by this section shall remain posted for 30 days after completion of the canvass, shall then be archived by the elections official, and shall remain available for public inspection as long as election materials are required to be retained. Copies shall be made available upon request for a price not to exceed the cost of reproduction and mailing. (d) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 554, Sec. 3. (SB 1131) Effective September 26, 2022.)
  53. 12106.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

    Verify source ↗

    The elections official must publish the polling-place list for each precinct when local publication is warranted, and must do so at least one week before the election in appropriate newspapers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12106. (a) The elections official shall publish, as provided in this section and Section 12105, the list of polling places designated for each election precinct in each jurisdiction where the elections official determines that the public interest, convenience, and necessity require the local publication of the list to afford adequate notice of this subject to the electorate. (b) After making a determination pursuant to subdivision (a), the elections official shall divide and distribute the list of polling places and cause the same to be published at least one week before the election in newspapers of general circulation published in different places in the jurisdiction. (c) Divisions of the list of polling places may be published in that daily newspaper of general circulation published or circulated in one or more cities in the county, with the exception of the county seat, that is determined will give to the electorate in each city adequate notice of the election. If there is no daily newspaper, publication may be made in a semiweekly newspaper, a biweekly newspaper, or a weekly newspaper of general circulation that is determined will give the electorate in the city adequate notice of the election. (d) The list of polling places designated for various portions of the unincorporated area of the county and of the county seat may be published in those daily, semiweekly, biweekly, or weekly newspapers of general circulation published or circulated within the various portions of the unincorporated area and the county seat, deemed by the county elections official to be those newspapers that will give adequate notice of the election to the voters of the respective portions of the unincorporated area and the county seat. (e) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 29. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  54. 12107.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

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    The elections official must arrange publication contracts for polling-place lists and set the publication rate; the section does not apply to elections using vote centers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12107. (a) The elections official shall let the contracts for publication, pursuant to Section 12106, of the list of polling places designated for each election precinct, and shall determine the rate to be paid for the publication of the list or any portion of the list. (b) The publication rate shall be based on a common denominator of measurement for all newspapers and may be graduated according to circulation. Contracts for the publication shall include the publication of the proper portion of the list of polling places and all other items relating to that portion required by law to be published. (c) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 30. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  55. 12108.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

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    The elections official must identify each precinct board member’s party preference and post a list showing it, but the list must not include the members’ names.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12108. (a) The elections official shall ascertain the name of the political party, if any, for which each precinct board member has expressed a preference, as shown in the affidavit of registration of that person. The elections official shall post a list of the board member’s party preference or an abbreviation of the name of each precinct board member. The list required under this section shall not include the names of the precinct board members. If a precinct board member has not expressed a preference for a political party, the word “None” shall be printed in place of the party name. (b) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 554, Sec. 4. (SB 1131) Effective September 26, 2022.)
  56. 12109.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

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    When ballots are tallied centrally, the elections official or secretary must designate the public place and provide notice, either by newspaper publication or, if no local newspaper is published, by posting in the elections office.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12109. Whenever the ballots at any election or from any precincts are to be tallied at a central place and not at the precincts, the elections official or secretary of the jurisdiction conducting the election shall specify the public place to be used and give notice thereof as follows: (a) By at least one publication in a newspaper of general circulation published in the jurisdiction where the election is to be held, provided that the publication is made at least 10 days before the day of the election. (b) If a newspaper of general circulation is not published in that jurisdiction, then by prominently posting the notice in the office of the elections official for at least 10 days before the day of the election. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  57. 12110.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

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    For a municipal election to fill offices, the city elections official must publish a list of nominees and their offices at least one week before the election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12110. In case of a municipal election to fill offices, the city elections official shall not later than one week before the election publish a list of the names of the nominees, in the order in which they appear on the ballot, and the respective offices for which they have been nominated. Publication shall be in the city in a newspaper of general circulation. If there is no newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the city, the notice shall be typewritten and copies shall be posted conspicuously within the time prescribed in at least three public places in the city. This list shall be headed, “Nominees for Public Office,” in conspicuous type, and shall be substantially in the following form: ## NOMINEES FOR PUBLIC OFFICE Notice is hereby given that the following persons have been nominated for the offices mentioned below to be filled at the general municipal election to be held in the ____ of ____on ____ the ____ day of ____, 20__. (Here follow with the list of nominees.) Dated, ____ _____ City Elections Official _____ (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 344, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  58. 12111.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

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    For a municipal election on a measure, the city elections official must publish a synopsis at least one week before the election, or post typewritten copies in three public places if there is no newspaper; the notice must be headed “Measure To Be Voted On.”

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12111. (a) In case of a municipal election on any measure, the city elections official shall publish a synopsis of the measure at least one time not later than one week before the election in a newspaper of general circulation in the city. If there is no newspaper of general circulation published and circulated in the city, the notice shall be typewritten and copies shall be posted conspicuously within the time prescribed in at least three public places in the city. The notice shall be headed “Measure To Be Voted On” in conspicuous type and shall be substantially in the following form: ## MEASURE TO BE VOTED ON Notice is hereby given that the following measure is to be voted on at the ____ (general or special) municipal election to be held in the City of ____, on Tuesday, the ____ day of ____, 2___. ## (Synopsis of measure or measures) Dated ____ _____ City Elections Official _____ City of ______________ (b) The city elections official shall consolidate the notice of election and the notice of measure to be voted on into one notice if the measure was placed on the ballot before the notice of election is published pursuant to Section 12101. (Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 785, Sec. 10. Effective January 1, 2005.)
  59. 12112.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

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    The principal county elections official must publish a district election notice within the stated 90- to 120-day window and include required election and candidate-filing information. The county elections official must also issue a general press release with the offices to be filled and a phone number for filing information.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12112. (a) At least 90 days, and not more than 120 days, before the day fixed for the general district election, the elections official of the principal county shall publish a notice of the election once in a newspaper of general circulation published in the district or, if no such newspaper is published in the district, in a newspaper having general circulation in the district published in any affected county in the district. The notice shall contain the date of the general district election, name the offices for which candidates may file, and state the qualifications required by the principal act for each office. The notice shall state the location where official declarations of candidacy for eligible candidates desiring to file for any of the elective offices may be obtained, the office in which completed declarations of candidacy are required to be filed, and the date and time after which no declarations of candidacy may be accepted for filing. The notice shall state that appointment to each elective office will be made as prescribed by Section 10515 in the event there are no nominees or an insufficient number of nominees for the office and a petition for an election is not filed with the elections official within the time period prescribed by Section 10515. (b) In addition to the requirements of subdivision (a), the county elections official shall, by a general press release, set forth both of the following: (1) The elective offices of the district to be filled at the ensuing district election. (2) A telephone number that voters of the district may utilize in order to obtain information regarding filing for the elective district office. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  60. 12113.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. )

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    For each school or special district, the county elections official must immediately deliver a copy of all published notices to the district secretary.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Preelection Notices [12101 - 12113] ( Chapter 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. ) ## 12113. For each school or special district, the county elections official immediately shall deliver a copy of all published notices to the district secretary. Each notice shall be posted in the district office. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  61. 12200.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12200- 12200.] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This chapter applies to all jurisdictions.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12200- 12200.] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12200. This chapter applies to all jurisdictions. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  62. 12220.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. )

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    The elections official must divide the jurisdiction into precincts and prepare maps or exterior descriptions, and may make as many copies as the official determines. If requested, the county surveyor must help prepare those maps or descriptions.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. ) ## 12220. The elections official shall divide the jurisdiction into precincts and prepare detail maps or exterior descriptions thereof, or both, and as many copies as the elections official may determine. The county surveyor, if requested by an elections official, shall provide assistance to the elections official in the preparation of these maps or exterior descriptions. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  63. 12221.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. )

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    Precinct boundaries must be described by exterior descriptions or shown on one or more maps.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. ) ## 12221. In any order establishing precincts, their boundaries shall be defined by reference to exterior descriptions or delineation thereof on a map or maps. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  64. 12222.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. )

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    A precinct cannot be created if its boundary crosses certain district or city boundaries.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. ) ## 12222. (a) No precinct shall be established so that its boundary crosses the boundary of any supervisorial district, congressional district, senatorial district, Assembly district, board of equalization district, judicial district, incorporated city, ward, or city council district. (b) If, at any election, any precinct contains an insufficient number of qualified persons to make up a precinct board, the precinct may be consolidated with an adjoining precinct. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 504, Sec. 1. (AB 2692) Effective January 1, 2013.)
  65. 12223.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. )

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    When precincts are divided, changed, or created, the precinct boundary must be fixed so the precinct has no more than 1,000 voters on the 88th day before the election, unless another law provides otherwise. An elections official may subtract permanent vote-by-mail voters in some cases.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. ) ## 12223. (a) Whenever a jurisdiction is divided into election precincts or whenever the boundary of an established precinct is changed or a new precinct is created, the precinct boundary shall be fixed in a manner so that the number of voters in the precinct does not exceed 1,000 on the 88th day prior to the day of election, unless otherwise provided by law. (b) An elections official may subtract the number of permanent vote by mail voters, pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 3200) of Division 3, from the total number of voters for purposes of complying with subdivision (a) if after subtracting the number of permanent vote by mail voters, the number of voters in the precinct does not exceed the percentage of nonpermanent vote by mail voters in the jurisdiction on the 88th day prior to the election multiplied by 1,000, unless otherwise provided by law. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 111, Sec. 1. (SB 1342) Effective January 1, 2011. Section operative January 1, 2005, by its own provisions.)
  66. 12224.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. )

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    The elections official may divide precinct voters into two or more nearly equal groups and appoint a precinct board for each group.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. ) ## 12224. (a) At the discretion of the elections official, the voters of the precinct may be divided into two or more groups, as nearly equal as possible, and one precinct board appointed to serve each group. When the voters of a precinct are so divided, there may be one or more polling places and a ballot box for and a set of returns from each group. (b) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 32. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  67. 12225.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. )

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    If a precinct is wholly owned or controlled by the United States and federal authorities do not allow precinct boards and polling places, the elections official must convert it to a mail ballot precinct and run the election under Section 3005.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Precinct Formation [12220 - 12225] ( Article 2 repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. ) ## 12225. Whenever a precinct is entirely owned or controlled by the United States, and no permission is granted by the federal authorities for the establishment of precinct boards and polling places, precinct boards need not be appointed nor polling places designated, but in lieu thereof the elections official shall, not less than 88 days prior to election day, establish the precinct as a mail ballot precinct and conduct the election for that precinct in accordance with Section 3005. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  68. 12241.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Precinct Consolidations [12241- 12241.] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    An elections official may consolidate precincts and adjust precinct boundaries for certain elections, subject to Section 12222 and a limit of six existing precincts per consolidated precinct.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Precinct Consolidations [12241- 12241.] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12241. (a) The elections official conducting local, special, or consolidated elections, or statewide elections other than the direct primary, presidential primary, or general election, for the purpose of the election, may divide the territory within which the election is to be held into special election or consolidated election precincts by consolidating existing precincts, or otherwise, subject to Section 12222, and may change and alter the precincts for those elections as often as occasion requires. Not more than six existing precincts may be consolidated into one special election or consolidated election precinct. The polling place used for a consolidated precinct shall be located within the boundaries of the consolidated precinct. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2005. (Repealed (in Sec. 4) and added by Stats. 2001, Ch. 904, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2002. Section operative January 1, 2005, by its own provisions.)
  69. 12260.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official may change precinct boundaries and must keep, map, and provide boundary-change information on request.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12260. (a) The elections official may change or alter any precinct boundaries. (b) If any changes or alterations are made the elections official shall prepare new detail maps or exterior descriptions thereof, or both. The county surveyor shall, if so requested, provide assistance to the elections official in the preparation of the detail maps or exterior descriptions. (c) The elections official shall provide, at the request of any interested person, the following information: (1) All precinct boundary changes and alterations made within the current calendar year and the immediately preceding two calendar years. (2) All precinct consolidations made within the current calendar year and the immediately preceding two calendar years, specifying the election or elections in which the consolidations were made. (d) The information provided to persons pursuant to subdivision (c) shall include the precinct numbers before the change or alteration and then a description, including precinct numbers, of the changes or alterations. The description may include maps. (e) The information described in subdivisions (c) and (d) shall be compiled for each calendar year and shall be kept and filed so as to be accessible to any person upon request. (f) The elections official may charge a person requesting information the amount needed to reimburse the jurisdiction for the actual expenses incurred in providing copies of the information required under this section. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 9. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  70. 12261.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Precinct boundaries for the general election generally match those for the direct primary election, with limited exceptions for population changes, precincts over 1,000 voters, jurisdictional boundary changes, election consolidations, and precinct consolidations.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12261. (a) The boundaries of precincts for the general election shall be the same as those established for the direct primary election, except to the extent necessary to add or subtract precincts as the result of population change or to divide precincts containing more than 1,000 voters or to change precinct boundaries due to jurisdictional boundary changes, or consolidations of elections. Changes of precinct boundaries may also be made when consolidating precincts. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2005. (Repealed (in Sec. 6) and added by Stats. 2001, Ch. 904, Sec. 7. Effective January 1, 2002. Section operative January 1, 2005, by its own provisions.)
  71. 12262.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Boundary changes made less than 125 days before an election do not take effect for that election, and affected voters vote in the ensuing election as if no boundary change happened.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12262. Jurisdictional boundary changes occurring less than 125 days before an election shall not be effective for purposes of that election. Voters residing within an area affected by a boundary change, occurring within 125 days before an election, shall vote at the ensuing election in all respects as if a boundary change had not occurred. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 118, Sec. 3. (AB 1730) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  72. 12263.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    County registrars of voters must provide, on request, a free digital map showing precinct boundaries.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Precinct Boundary Changes [12260 - 12263] ( Article 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12263. The registrar of voters in each county shall make available, upon request by any member of the public, a map in digital form provided free of charge that shows the effective boundaries of each precinct within the county. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 80, Sec. 1. (AB 17) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  73. 12280.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    When designating polling places, the elections official must take necessary steps to make sure the places meet the Secretary of State’s accessibility guidelines for physically handicapped voters.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12280. When designating polling places, the elections official shall undertake necessary measures in the locating of polling places to ensure that polling places meet the guidelines promulgated by the Secretary of State for accessibility by the physically handicapped. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 12. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  74. 12281.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If a precinct’s polling place cannot be used, election officials may move it and must notify voters; in some emergencies, the precinct board may do so on election day.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12281. (a) If, for any valid reason, the polling place designated for any precinct cannot be used, and this fact is known in sufficient time to allow a mailed notice to be received before the election, the elections official may designate another polling place and shall mail, to each voter in the precinct a notice showing this change. (b) If the information is not known in sufficient time for a mailing pursuant to subdivision (a), either the elections official or, in the case of an emergency, the precinct board on the day of election, shall designate another polling place as near the place first designated as possible, post notice on or near the place first designated, and conduct the election at the new location. (c) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 33. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  75. 12282.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Property exempt from taxation under Section 214 must be made available free of charge to the elections official for use as a polling place.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12282. Property exempted from taxation pursuant to Section 214 of the Revenue and Taxation Code shall be made available free of charge to the elections official for use as a polling place pursuant to Section 213.5 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 14. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  76. 12283.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section defines “public building” and sets rules for using school or public buildings as polling places or vote centers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12283. (a) For purposes of this section, “public building” means a building owned or controlled by any of the following: (1) A local governmental agency, including a city or county. (2) The University of California. (3) The California State University. (4) A community college district. (b) (1) The governing body having jurisdiction over school buildings or other public buildings may authorize the use of its buildings for polling places, or for vote centers, as described in Section 4005, beginning up to 10 days before the election and continuing through election day, and it may also authorize the use of its buildings, without cost, for the storage of voting machines and other vote-tabulating devices. (2) If a city or county elections official specifically requests the use of a school building or public building for polling places, or vote centers beginning up to 10 days before the election and continuing through election day, as well as during key dates necessary for drop-off, set-up, and pick-up of election materials, as determined by the elections official, the governing body having jurisdiction over the particular school building or public building shall allow its use for the purpose requested, except that the University of California is encouraged, but not required, to comply with a request made pursuant to this paragraph. (3) When allowing use of a school building for polling places or vote centers, the governing body may, but is not required to, do any of the following: (A) Continue school in session, if the governing body identifies to the elections official making the request the specific areas of the school buildings not occupied by school activities that will be allowed for use as polling places or vote centers. (B) Designate the day for staff training and development. (C) Close the school to students and certificated employees. (c) (1) An elections official requesting the use of a school building pursuant to subdivision (b) shall include in the official’s request a list of the schools from which the use of a building for polling places or vote centers is needed. Requests must be made within sufficient time in advance of the school year for the governing body to determine, on a school-by-school or districtwide basis, whether to keep the affected schools in session, designate the schoolday for staff training and development, or close the school to students and nonclassified employees before school calendars are printed and distributed to parents. (2) An elections official requesting the use of a public building pursuant to subdivision (b) shall include in the official’s request a list of the buildings from which the use of a building for polling places or vote centers is needed. Requests shall be made sufficiently before election day for the governing body of the city, county, or other local governmental agency to adequately plan for the public building’s use as a polling place or vote center. (d) (1) Once a governing body has approved the use of a school building or public building as a polling place or vote center, the governing body shall instruct the school district or other public administrator to provide the elections official a site with an adequate amount of space for voting operations and storage of associated supplies that will allow the precinct board or vote center to perform its duties in a manner that will not impede, interfere, or interrupt the normal process of voting and to make internet access available for use by local elections officials, if requested. (2) Beginning 10 days before the election and continuing through election day, if requested by the elections official, the district administrator shall make building parking available at no charge to the precinct or vote center board and voters. If requested by the elections official, the district administrator shall also make accessible parking spaces and parking for assisting voters curbside available. (e) A public building, including, but not limited to, a building operated by a school district, that is used as a polling place or vote center shall comply with applicable accessibility requirements described in this article, the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12101 et seq.), the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 20901 et seq.), and the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10101 et seq.). (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 253, Sec. 1. (AB 287) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  77. 12284.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    On request by the elections official, state-owned buildings, parking lots, and other facilities must be made available free of charge for polling places and vote centers, but the Department of General Services may exclude certain state facilities.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12284. Upon request of the elections official, state-owned buildings, parking lots, and other facilities shall be made available free of charge for use as polling places and vote centers, except that the Department of General Services may exclude from use as polling places or vote centers state facilities at which access to confidential materials cannot be reasonably safeguarded, which are inaccessible to the public, the use of which would disrupt state business, or which are otherwise impractical for use as polling places. (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 343, Sec. 2. (AB 2540) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  78. 12285.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A mobilehome may be used as a polling place if the elections official makes the required determination and designates it accordingly. Rental agreements may not prohibit that use.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12285. A mobilehome may be used as a polling place if the elections official determines that no other facilities are available for the convenient exercise of voting rights by mobilehome park residents and the mobilehome is designated as a polling place by the elections official pursuant to Section 12286. No rental agreement shall prohibit the use of a mobilehome for those purposes. (Amended by Stats. 2000, Ch. 1081, Sec. 20. Effective January 1, 2001.)
  79. 12286.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official must take several precinct and polling-place setup steps at least 29 days before the election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12286. (a) At least 29 days prior to the election, the elections official shall do all of the following: (1) Establish a convenient number of election precincts within the affected jurisdiction. (2) Define the precinct boundaries. (3) Designate a polling place for each precinct. (4) Appoint for each precinct a precinct board pursuant to Sections 12302 to 12304, inclusive. (5) Notify the members of each precinct board of their appointment and the location of the precinct and polling place where they will serve. (b) The elections official, in establishing precincts and defining their boundaries, shall, to the extent practicable, provide for a single polling place where a voter entitled to vote in more than one district may cast all of his or her ballots. (c) In a landowner voting district, the county elections official shall designate the polling place at which a nonresident landowner shall vote. (d) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 35. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  80. 12287.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A candidate’s home cannot be used as a polling place in an election where that candidate’s name is on the ballot.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12287. A candidate’s residence shall not be designated as a polling place for an election at which that candidate’s name will appear on the ballot. (Added by Stats. 2000, Ch. 29, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2001.)
  81. 12287.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A single-family residence cannot be used as a polling place if officials determine it is the registered address of a sex offender, and elections officials must check the Megan’s Law website within 60 days before designating a residence.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12287.5. A single-family residence shall not be designated as a polling place if elections officials determine that it has the registered address of a person who is required to register pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration Act. Elections officials shall, not more than 60 days prior to designating a single-family residence as a polling place, use the Megan’s Law Internet Web site maintained by the Department of Justice to determine if the residence has the registered address of a sex offender. In accordance with subdivision (k) of Section 290.46 of the Penal Code, an elections official who is required to register as a sex offender shall be prohibited from accessing the Megan’s Law public Internet Web site. (Added by Stats. 2011, Ch. 137, Sec. 1. (AB 193) Effective January 1, 2012.)
  82. 12288.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A polling place must not have access by door, window, or other opening to any place where alcoholic beverages are sold or dispensed while the polls are open.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Precincts [12200 - 12288] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Polling Places [12280 - 12288] ( Article 5 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12288. A polling place shall not be accessible by a door, window, or other opening to any place where any alcoholic beverage is sold or dispensed while the polls are open. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 155, Sec. 1. (AB 2037) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  83. 12300.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Eligible voters may apply to the elections official for a precinct board member position, and the elections official may require the application to use specific forms.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12300. Any voter, or any individual who possesses the qualifications set forth in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) of Section 12302, may file an application with the elections official for the position of precinct board member. The elections official may require the application be made on specific forms supplied by the elections official. (Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 162, Sec. 1. (AB 817) Effective January 1, 2014.)
  84. 12301.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    People appointed as election officers for a precinct make up that precinct’s precinct board.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12301. The persons appointed to serve as election officers for each precinct at any election shall constitute the precinct board for that precinct. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  85. 12302.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets who may serve on a precinct board and limits what pupil and nonvoter appointees may do.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12302. (a) Except as provided in subdivisions (b) and (c), a member of a precinct board shall be a voter of the state. The member may serve only in the precinct for which his or her appointment is received. (b) (1) In order to provide for a greater awareness of the elections process, the rights and responsibilities of voters, and the importance of participating in the electoral process, as well as to provide additional members of precinct boards, an elections official may appoint not more than five pupils per precinct to serve under the direct supervision of precinct board members designated by the elections official. A pupil may be appointed, notwithstanding his or her lack of eligibility to vote, subject to the approval of the governing board of the educational institution in which the pupil is enrolled, if the pupil possesses the following qualifications: (A) Is at least 16 years of age at the time of the election for which he or she is serving as a member of a precinct board. (B) Is a United States citizen, will be a citizen at the time of the election for which he or she is serving as a member of a precinct board, or is lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States, as defined in Section 101(a)(20) of the federal Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. Sec. 1101(a)(20)). (C) Is a pupil in good standing attending a public or private secondary educational institution. (D) Is a pupil who has a grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. (2) A pupil appointed pursuant to this subdivision may not be used by a precinct board to tally votes. (c) (1) In order to promote civic engagement among residents of the state and to provide additional members of precinct boards, an elections official may appoint not more than five nonvoters per precinct to serve as precinct board members. A nonvoter may be appointed, notwithstanding his or her lack of eligibility to vote, if the nonvoter possesses the following qualifications: (A) Is lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States, as defined in Section 101(a)(20) of the federal Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. Sec. 1101(a)(20)). (B) Is otherwise eligible to register to vote pursuant to Section 2101 except for his or her lack of United States citizenship. (2) A nonvoter appointed to a precinct board pursuant to this subdivision shall not be permitted to do either of the following: (A) Serve as, or perform any of the duties of, the inspector of a precinct board. (B) Tally votes for the precinct board. (Amended by Stats. 2015, Ch. 150, Sec. 1. (AB 554) Effective January 1, 2016.)
  86. 12303.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A person who cannot read or write English may not serve on a precinct board, and election officials have several language-assistance reporting and notice duties.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12303. (a) A person who cannot read or write the English language is not eligible to act as a member of any precinct board. (b) It is the intent of the Legislature that non-English-speaking citizens, like all other citizens, should be encouraged to vote. Therefore, appropriate efforts should be made to minimize obstacles to non-English-speaking citizens voting without assistance. (c) (1) Where the elections official finds that citizens described in subdivision (b) approximate 3 percent or more of the voting-age residents of a precinct, or if interested citizens or organizations provided information that the elections official believes indicates a need for voting assistance for qualified citizens described in subdivision (b), the elections official shall make reasonable efforts to recruit elections officials who are fluent in a language used by citizens described in subdivision (b) and in English. This recruitment shall be conducted through the cooperation of interested citizens and organizations and through voluntarily donated public service notices in the media, including newspapers, radio, television, and the internet, particularly those media that serve the non-English-speaking citizens described in subdivision (b). (2) (A) Within 150 days following each statewide general election, the county elections official shall report to the Secretary of State the number of individuals recruited to serve as members of precinct boards, including the number of individuals recruited who are fluent in each language required to be represented under Section 14201 and Section 203 of the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10101 et seq.). The Secretary of State shall issue uniform standard reporting guidelines. (B) The Secretary of State shall post all county reports received under subparagraph (A) on the Secretary of State’s internet website within 180 days following each statewide general election. (3) At each polling place, a member of the precinct board shall identify the languages spoken by the member, other than English, by wearing a name tag, button, sticker, lanyard, or other mechanism, as determined by the county elections official. The text indicating the language skills of the member of the precinct board shall be in the non-English language or languages spoken by that member. (d) At least 14 days before an election, the elections official shall prepare and make available to the public a list of the precincts to which officials were appointed pursuant to this section, including on the county elections official’s internet website, and the language or languages other than English in which they will provide assistance. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 131, Sec. 55. (AB 1754) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  87. 12304.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official must set precinct board composition based on precinct size, and each precinct board must include at least one inspector and two clerks.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12304. (a) The composition of the precinct board shall be determined by the elections official based on election precinct size. The precinct board shall consist of a minimum of one inspector and two clerks. Additional clerk positions may be allocated in proportion to the number of registered voters within the precinct. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2005. (Repealed (in Sec. 8) and added by Stats. 2001, Ch. 904, Sec. 9. Effective January 1, 2002. Section operative January 1, 2005, by its own provisions.)
  88. 12306.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    County elections officials must allow qualified political parties to nominate precinct board members, accept written nominations at least 90 days before the election, and prefer nominees from parties with at least 10% of registered voters in the precinct.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12306. The county elections official of any county, in appointing members of the several precinct boards to serve in the direct primary and general elections under the provisions of this code, shall permit the county central committee of each qualified political party to nominate for appointment to the precinct board a member of that party who is registered and resident in that precinct. Nomination pursuant to this section shall be made in writing to the county elections official not less than 90 days before the election for which the nomination is made. In making appointments to precinct boards from nominations submitted by political parties, the county elections official shall give preference to the nominee of any qualified political party with at least 10 percent of the registered voters in the precinct for which the nomination is made. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  89. 12307.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    When the list of appointed precinct board members is filed, the elections official must immediately mail or deliver a notice to each appointed voter.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12307. Upon filing the list of names and addresses of those who have been appointed members of the precinct board, the elections official shall immediately mail or deliver to each voter so appointed, a notice stating the appointment and the position to which assigned, the penalty for failure to serve, and any other matter that the elections official determines. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  90. 12309.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official must train inspectors after precinct board members are appointed, and the training must follow Secretary of State standards.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12309. (a) Following the appointment of members of precinct boards, the elections official shall instruct inspectors so appointed concerning their duties in connection with the conduct of the election, which instruction shall conform to the uniform standards adopted by the Secretary of State pursuant to Section 12309.5. (b) A person may not serve as an inspector of a precinct board at an election unless instruction has been received in accordance with this section except that, in the case of the emergency disability of a regular inspector, substitute inspectors shall be given any instruction found necessary by the elections official. (c) At the request of the elections official, the legislative body may contract with any qualified person or organization for purposes of instructing inspectors in accordance with this section. (d) This section shall become operative on June 30, 2005. (Repealed (in Sec. 3) and added by Stats. 2003, Ch. 530, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2004. Section operative June 30, 2005, by its own provisions.)
  91. 12309.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The Secretary of State must adopt uniform training standards for precinct board members by June 30, 2005, using a task force’s recommendations.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12309.5. (a) No later than June 30, 2005, the Secretary of State shall adopt uniform standards for the training of precinct board members, based upon the recommendations of the task force appointed pursuant to subdivision (b). The uniform standards shall, at a minimum, address the following: (1) The rights of voters, including, but not limited to, language access rights for linguistic minorities, the disabled, and protected classes as referenced and defined in the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10301 et seq.). (2) Election challenge procedures such as challenging precinct administrator misconduct, fraud, bribery, or discriminatory voting procedures as referenced and defined in the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10301 et seq.). (3) Operation of a jurisdiction’s voting system, including, but not limited to, modernized voting systems, touch-screen voting, and proper tabulation procedures. (4) Poll hours and procedures concerning the opening and closing of polling locations on election day. Procedures shall be developed that, notwithstanding long lines or delays at a polling location, ensure all eligible voters who arrive at the polling location before closing time are allowed to cast a ballot. (5) Relevant election laws and any other subjects that will assist an inspector in carrying out his or her duties. (6) Cultural competency, including, but not limited to, having adequate knowledge of diverse cultures, including languages, that may be encountered by a poll worker during the course of an election, and the appropriate skills to work with the electorate. (7) Knowledge regarding issues confronting voters who have disabilities, including, but not limited to, access barriers and the need for reasonable accommodations. (8) Procedures involved with provisional, fail-safe provisional, vote by mail, and provisional vote by mail voting. (b) The Secretary of State shall appoint a task force of at least 12 members who have experience in the administration of elections and other relevant backgrounds to study and recommend uniform guidelines for the training of precinct board members. The task force shall consist of the chief elections officer of the two largest counties, the two smallest counties, and two county elections officers selected by the Secretary of State, or their designees. The Secretary of State shall appoint at least six other members who have elections expertise, or their designees, including members of community-based organizations that may include citizens familiar with different ethnic, cultural, and disabled populations to ensure that the task force is representative of the state’s diverse electorate. The task force shall make its recommendations available for public review and comment before the submission of the recommendations to the Secretary of State and the Legislature. (c) The task force shall file its recommendations with the Secretary of State and the Legislature no later than January 1, 2005. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 86, Sec. 119. (SB 1171) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  92. 12310.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Each precinct board member must receive compensation from the jurisdiction’s governing body, and the inspector may receive more than the other members.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12310. Each member of a precinct board shall receive compensation from the governing body of the jurisdiction. This sum shall be paid out of the treasury of the jurisdiction in which the election is held. The inspector may receive more compensation than the other members of the precinct board. The additional compensation to the inspector is for services rendered in securing precinct board members and other duties which may be directed by the elections official. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 36. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  93. 12311.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A public agency is not required, because of an assignment or transfer, to pay an election officer’s stipend to someone other than the officer who is owed it.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12311. No public agency shall be required as the result of any assignment or transfer to pay the stipend of an election officer for services to any person other than the election officer to whom the stipend is due. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 23. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  94. 12312.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A person may not suspend or discharge someone from service or employment because that person was absent while serving as an election officer.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12312. A person shall not be suspended or discharged from any service or employment because of absence while serving as an election officer. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 37. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  95. 12313.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If a precinct board member is absent when polls open, the voters present must appoint a voter to fill the vacancy. If no appointed member appears, the precinct voters present may appoint a board. This section does not apply to elections using vote centers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12313. (a) If any member of a precinct board does not appear at the opening of the polls on the morning of an election, those voters present, including members of the board, shall appoint a voter to fill the vacancy. If none of the members appointed appears at that time, the voters of the precinct present at that time may appoint a board. (b) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 38. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  96. 12314.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The inspector may appoint a voter to replace a precinct board member who stops acting or becomes incapacitated during an election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12314. The inspector may appoint a voter to replace any precinct board member who ceases to act or becomes incapacitated during the progress of an election. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 24. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  97. 12315.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If the inspector stops acting, a majority of the remaining precinct board members may appoint a substitute.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12315. If the inspector ceases to act, a majority of the remaining members of the precinct board may appoint a substitute. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  98. 12316.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official may excuse appointed persons if satisfied they ought to be excused.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12316. In constituting precinct boards, the elections official may excuse persons appointed whom the elections official is satisfied ought to be excused. Substitutions may be made when any person appointed is excused or found disqualified or incompetent, until a final or amended list of election officers is sent to the inspector for that precinct. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  99. 12318.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The county elections official must send the precinct board list to each qualified political party’s county central committee and make the list available to anyone who requests it, with a sign-in roster and identification required. This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12318. (a) Following the notification of the precinct board members appointed pursuant to Section 12307, the county elections official shall mail or deliver to the county central committee of each qualified political party a copy of the list, and the elections official may notify the same committee of any substitute appointments that are made until the time the notice of final order is sent to the precinct inspector. This list shall have the names of precinct board members in precinct order. (b) In addition, the elections official shall make available a copy of the list prescribed in subdivision (a) to any person requesting a copy. Any person requesting a copy of the list shall sign a roster specifying his or her name, telephone number, and address, and shall provide the elections official with adequate personal identification. (c) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 39. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  100. 12319.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official must immediately mail or deliver a notice to each appointed inspector showing the precinct polling place and the voters assigned as election officers there.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12319. The elections official shall immediately mail or deliver to each person appointed as inspector a notice showing the precinct polling place and the voters appointed to serve as election officers in that precinct. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 26. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  101. 12320.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A person may not act as an election officer until the Section 12321 declaration has been signed.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12320. No person is eligible to act as an election officer until the declaration required by Section 12321 has been signed. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  102. 12321.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Inspectors must sign and return a declaration of intention on time, and other precinct board members must sign before starting duties.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12321. (a) (1) Each inspector shall sign a declaration of intention to faithfully discharge the duties of inspector and shall return it to the elections official at least 15 days before election day or the first day of service at a vote center. If the inspector fails or refuses to sign and file the declaration, the elections official shall appoint a substitute who shall make and file the application. (2) The declaration of an inspector and each of the declarations of other members of the precinct board provided for in this article shall be signed in the presence of a witness and shall be as binding on the signer as would be an oath of office. (3) The declaration of an inspector shall be in substantially the following form: State of California County of ⎱ ⎰ ss. I do hereby solemnly declare that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California, and that I will to the best of my ability, faithfully discharge the duties of inspector for polling place or vote center ______ for the election to be held on ______, 20__. . Signed in the presence of _____ (Signature) _____ on ______, 20__. (b) Before entering upon the performance of duties, each of the precinct board members, other than the inspector, shall sign a declaration of intention to faithfully discharge the duties of an election officer. The declaration shall be signed before any member of the precinct board. The form for each of the declarations shall be provided in the roster for the polling place. The declaration of the precinct board member shall be in substantially the following form: State of California County of ⎱ ⎰ ss. I do hereby solemnly declare that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California, and that I will to the best of my ability, faithfully discharge the duties of precinct board member for polling place or vote center______ for the election to be held on ______, 20__. . Signed in the presence of _____ (Signature) _____ on ______, 20__. (c) Any precinct board member may administer and certify oaths required to be administered during the progress of an election. This authorization shall include the power to give any type of oath required of a public employee. There shall be no fee or charge for administering an oath. (d) In lieu of signing and returning the declaration of the inspector, as provided in this chapter, the county elections official may require the inspector to sign the declaration for an election and before entering upon the performance of these duties. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 40. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  103. 12327.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If a precinct lacks appointed board members or a designated polling place, the county elections official must immediately appoint the board members or designate the polling place and notify each board member. If no suitable polling place can be arranged, the elections official may use a contiguous precinct.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 12. PREELECTION PROCEDURES [12000 - 12327] ( Division 12 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Precinct Boards [12300 - 12327] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [12300 - 12327] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 12327. (a) If the precinct board members for any precinct have not been appointed or cannot serve, or the polling place has not been designated prior to an election, the county elections official shall, by written order, immediately appoint the precinct board members or designate the polling place for the precinct, as the case may require, and shall notify each precinct board member of the appointment. (b) If, at this time, the elections official cannot make suitable arrangements for a polling place in any precinct in which none has been designated, the elections official may designate a polling place in any contiguous precinct. Any precinct board member serving in this polling place shall be regarded as serving in the proper precinct within the meaning of this chapter. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 725, Sec. 33. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  104. 13.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 0.5. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS [1 - 362] ( Division 0.5 heading added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 17. ) ## CHAPTER 1 General Provisions [1. - 21] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A person is not a legally qualified candidate unless a candidacy or write-in declaration is filed, or the person qualifies for ballot placement under the listed routes.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 0.5. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS [1 - 362] ( Division 0.5 heading added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 17. ) ## CHAPTER 1 General Provisions [1. - 21] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13. (a) A person shall not be considered a legally qualified candidate for an office, for party nomination for a partisan office, or for nomination to participate in the general election for a voter-nominated office, under the laws of this state unless that person has filed a declaration of candidacy or statement of write-in candidacy with the proper official for the particular election or primary, or is entitled to have his or her name placed on a general election ballot by reason of having been nominated at a primary election, or having been selected to fill a vacancy on the general election ballot as provided in Section 8807, or having been selected as an independent candidate pursuant to Section 8304. (b) Nothing in this section shall be construed as preventing or prohibiting any qualified voter of this state from casting a ballot for a person by writing the name of that person on the ballot, or from having that ballot counted or tabulated, nor shall this section be construed as preventing or prohibiting a person from standing or campaigning for an elective office by means of a “write-in” campaign. However, nothing in this section shall be construed as an exception to the requirements of Section 15341 or to permit a person to be a write-in candidate contrary to Sections 8600 and 8606. (c) It is the intent of the Legislature, in enacting this section, to enable the Federal Communications Commission to determine who is a “legally qualified candidate” in this state for the purposes of administering Section 315 of Title 47 of the United States Code. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 3, Sec. 1. (AB 1413) Effective February 10, 2012.)
  105. 13.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 0.5. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS [1 - 362] ( Division 0.5 heading added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 17. ) ## CHAPTER 1 General Provisions [1. - 21] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A candidate must file the required candidacy papers, qualification documents, and a perjury declaration with the proper official to be treated as legally qualified.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 0.5. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS [1 - 362] ( Division 0.5 heading added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 17. ) ## CHAPTER 1 General Provisions [1. - 21] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13.5. (a) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 13, a person shall not be considered a legally qualified candidate for any of the offices set forth in subdivision (b) unless that person has filed all of the following with the proper official: (A) A declaration of candidacy, nomination papers, or statement of write-in candidacy. (B) Documentation that establishes that the person meets each qualification established for service in that office pursuant to subdivision (b). Documentation may include, but is not limited to, certificates, declarations, degrees, diplomas, official correspondences, college transcripts that include training courses taken, or other supporting documents. (C) A declaration, under penalty of perjury, certifying that the information contained within the documentation the person filed pursuant to subparagraph (B) is true and correct. (2) The provision of “documentation,” for purposes of compliance with the requirements of paragraph (1), may include the submission of either an original, as defined in Section 255 of the Evidence Code, or a duplicate, as defined in Section 260 of the Evidence Code. (3) The official with whom the person filed the documentation pursuant to paragraph (1) is not required to verify either of the following: (A) The authenticity or accuracy of the documentation. (B) Whether the documentation is sufficient to establish that the candidate meets each qualification established for service in that office. (b) This section shall be applicable to the following offices and qualifications therefor: (1) For the office of county auditor, the qualifications set forth in Sections 26945 and 26946 of the Government Code. (2) For the office of county district attorney, the qualifications set forth in Sections 24001 and 24002 of the Government Code. (3) For the office of county sheriff, the qualifications set forth in Section 24004.3 of the Government Code. (4) For the office of county superintendent of schools, the qualifications set forth in Sections 1205 to 1208, inclusive, of the Education Code. (5) For the office of judge of the superior court, the qualifications set forth in Section 15 of Article VI of the California Constitution. (6) For the office of county treasurer, county tax collector, or county treasurer-tax collector, the qualifications set forth in Section 27000.7 of the Government Code, provided that the board of supervisors has adopted the provisions of that section pursuant to Section 27000.6 of the Government Code. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 669, Sec. 1. (AB 910) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  106. 1300.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets when certain county elections must be held, and lets county boards of supervisors choose a presidential-primary election date by ordinance for some county officers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1300. (a) (1) An election to select a district attorney and sheriff shall be held with the presidential primary. (2) If the district attorney or sheriff is not elected pursuant to Sections 8140 and 8141, the election described in paragraph (1) shall be deemed a primary election and a county general election shall be held with the presidential general election to select the district attorney or sheriff. (b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) and as otherwise provided in the Government Code, an election to select county officers other than district attorney and sheriff shall be held with the statewide primary at which candidates for Governor are nominated. (2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), and except as otherwise provided in the Government Code, a county board of supervisors may adopt an ordinance to hold an election to select any county officer other than a county superintendent of schools with the presidential primary. (3) If a county officer described in this subdivision is not elected pursuant to Sections 8140 and 8141, the election held pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) shall be deemed a primary election and a county general election for the office shall be held with the following statewide general election. (c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b) of Section 1003 or any other law, the requirement that the district attorney and sheriff be elected in presidential election years applies to both general law and charter counties, except those charter counties that, on or before January 1, 2021, expressly specified in their charter when an election for district attorney or sheriff would occur. (d) A district attorney or sheriff elected in 2022 shall serve a six-year term and the next election for that office shall occur at the 2028 presidential primary. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 743, Sec. 2. (AB 759) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  107. 13000.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The election official for a county, city and county, city, or district must provide ballots for elections in that jurisdiction and print the names of qualifying candidates on them.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13000. The person in charge of elections for any county, city and county, city, or district shall provide ballots for any elections within his or her jurisdiction, and shall cause to be printed on them the name of every candidate whose name has been certified to or filed with the proper officer pursuant to law and who, therefore, is entitled to a place on the appropriate ballot. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  108. 13001.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Election expenses are generally paid from county treasuries, or from a city treasury when the election is called by a city governing body. Payments must follow the same manner as other county or city expenditures, and the elections official may provide required materials without using the county or city purchasing agent.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13001. All expenses authorized and necessarily incurred in the preparation for, and conduct of, elections as provided in this code shall be paid from the county treasuries, except that when an election is called by the governing body of a city the expenses shall be paid from the treasury of the city. All payments shall be made in the same manner as other county or city expenditures are made. The elections official, in providing the materials required by this division, need not utilize the services of the county or city purchasing agent. (Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 179, Sec. 74. Effective January 1, 2009.)
  109. 13002.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    California election jurisdictions must use ballot paper and ballot cards that are tinted and watermarked or overprinted with a discernible design, furnished by the Secretary of State.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13002. Ballot paper and ballot cards used by a jurisdiction holding an election pursuant to the laws of California shall be tinted and watermarked or overprinted with a design, to be furnished by the Secretary of State, so that the watermark or overprint is plainly discernible. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 333, Sec. 1. (SB 1404) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  110. 13004.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The Secretary of State must regulate ballot cards and ballot-on-demand systems, inspect certain certified facilities, and may set approval conditions. Ballot printers cannot make or sell ballot cards before certification. Ballot card manufacturers or finishers must report defects within the stated deadlines.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13004. (a) The Secretary of State shall adopt regulations governing the manufacture, finishing, quality standards, distribution, and inventory control of ballot cards and ballot on demand systems. (b) A ballot printer shall not manufacture or finish ballot cards, or manufacture unfinished ballot cards, for use in California elections, or accept or solicit orders for ballot cards or unfinished ballot cards, before certification as a ballot printer by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State may impose conditions of approval as deemed necessary by the Secretary of State. (c) For commercial ballot manufacturers and finishers, the Secretary of State shall require a biennial inspection of the certified manufacturing, finishing, and storage facilities. (d) Not later than five working days before the Secretary of State begins the initial inspection, the ballot card manufacturer or finisher shall notify or disclose to the Secretary of State in writing any known flaw or defect in its ballot card manufacturing or finishing process, or its manufactured or finished ballot cards, that could adversely affect the future casting or tallying of votes. Once approved by the Secretary of State, the ballot card manufacturer or finisher shall notify the Secretary of State and the affected local elections officials in writing within 24 hours after it discovers any flaw or defect in its ballot card manufacturing or finishing process, or its manufactured or finished ballot cards, that could adversely affect the future casting or tallying of votes. (e) For purposes of this section, “ballot printer” means any company or jurisdiction that manufactures, finishes, or sells ballot cards, including test ballots, for use in an election conducted pursuant to this code. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 605, Sec. 3. (SB 1328) Effective September 25, 2024.)
  111. 13004.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Jurisdictions and vendors may not deal in ballot on demand systems unless the system has been certified by the Secretary of State, and approved vendors must report defects within 24 hours of discovery.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13004.5. (a) A jurisdiction shall not purchase, lease, or contract for a ballot on demand system unless the ballot on demand system has been certified by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State may impose additional conditions of approval as deemed necessary by the Secretary of State. (b) A vendor, company, or person shall not sell, lease, or contract with a jurisdiction for the use of a ballot on demand system unless the ballot on demand system has been certified by the Secretary of State. (c) This section does not preclude a jurisdiction from conducting research and development of a ballot on demand system. A ballot on demand system that is used for purposes of this subdivision shall not be used in an election conducted pursuant to this code unless the system has been certified by the Secretary of State. (d) Once a ballot on demand system is approved by the Secretary of State, the ballot on demand system vendor shall notify the Secretary of State and the affected local elections officials in writing within 24 hours after it discovers any flaw or defect in its ballot on demand system that could adversely affect the future casting or tallying of votes. (e) The Secretary of State shall promulgate regulations for purposes of certifying ballot on demand systems. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 605, Sec. 4. (SB 1328) Effective September 25, 2024.)
  112. 13005.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A user must request a written release from the Secretary of State before buying ballot cards; the Secretary of State must issue a written release if the request is in order.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13005. (a) Before a user may purchase ballot cards, the user shall request in writing a release for a specific quantity of these ballot cards from the Secretary of State. If the request is in order, the Secretary of State shall issue a written release for that quantity to the manufacturer, or to the authorized warehouse, and to the user. The format, text, and use of the request and release shall be governed by regulations adopted by the Secretary of State. (b) Nothing in this section prohibits a verbal request or verbal release, provided that this verbal request or verbal release is immediately confirmed in writing. The regulations shall expressly deny the manufacturing of ballot cards without a specific release. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 333, Sec. 3. (SB 1404) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  113. 13006.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Certain users, vendors, or manufacturers may not store ballot paper or ballot cards from one election for a later election unless they first get written authorization from the Secretary of State.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 1. Purchasing Procedures [13000 - 13006] ( Chapter 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13006. A user, vendor, or manufacturer shall not warehouse for a subsequent election ballot paper or ballot cards furnished or released by the Secretary of State for a specific election without first obtaining authorization in writing from the Secretary of State for the storage. The authorization shall include the particular details of the amount to be stored so that audit controls may be established and maintained. Ballot paper or ballot cards not used in that election, not authorized to be retained for subsequent elections, and not returned to the Secretary of State, shall be destroyed. A certificate of destruction setting forth the date of destruction and the amount of the ballot paper or ballot cards destroyed shall be transmitted to the Secretary of State. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 333, Sec. 4. (SB 1404) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  114. 1301.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A city council may pass an ordinance to move a general municipal election to one of several specified dates, but the ordinance must be approved by the county board of supervisors before it takes effect.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1301. (a) Except as required by Section 57379 of the Government Code, and except as provided in subdivision (b), a general municipal election shall be held on an established election date pursuant to Section 1000. (b) (1) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), a city council may enact an ordinance, pursuant to Division 10 (commencing with Section 10000), requiring its general municipal election to be held on the day of the statewide direct primary election, the day of the statewide general election, the day of school district elections as set forth in Section 1302, the first Tuesday after the first Monday of March in each odd-numbered year, or the second Tuesday of April in each year. An ordinance adopted pursuant to this subdivision shall become operative upon approval by the county board of supervisors. (2) In the event of consolidation, the general municipal election shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable procedural requirements of this code pertaining to that primary, general, or school district election, and shall thereafter occur in consolidation with that election. (c) If a city adopts an ordinance described in subdivision (b), the municipal election following the adoption of the ordinance and each municipal election thereafter shall be conducted on the date specified by the city council, in accordance with subdivision (b), unless the ordinance in question is later repealed by the city council. (d) If the date of a general municipal election is changed pursuant to subdivision (b), at least one election shall be held before the ordinance, as approved by the county board of supervisors, may be subsequently repealed or amended. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 86, Sec. 83. (SB 1171) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  115. 1302.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Local school, community college, and county education board elections are generally held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of odd-numbered years, with limited options to consolidate them onto certain other election dates.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1302. (a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), the regular election to select governing board members in any school district, community college district, or county board of education shall be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each odd-numbered year. (b) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and except as provided in Section 1302.5, after the initial election of governing board members in any school district, community college district, or of members of a county board of education, the election of governing board members for the district or of members of the county board of education may be established, upon the adoption of an appropriate resolution by the governing board or the county board of education, respectively, to regularly occur on the same day as the statewide direct primary election, the statewide general election, or the general municipal election as set forth in Section 1301. The resolution shall become operative upon approval by the board of supervisors pursuant to Section 10404.5 or 10405.7, as applicable. If a school district, community college district, or county board of education is located in more than one county, the district may not consolidate an election if any county in which the district is located denies the request for consolidation. (2) If the board of supervisors approves the resolution pursuant to Section 10404.5 or 10405.7, as applicable, the election of the governing board members of the school district or community college district or of members of the county board of education shall be conducted on the date specified by the board of supervisors, in accordance with paragraph (1), unless the approval is later rescinded by the board of supervisors. (3) In the event of consolidation, the election of governing board members of the school district or community college district or of members of the county board of education shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable procedural requirements of the Elections Code pertaining to that primary, general, or municipal election, and shall thereafter occur in consolidation with that election. (4) If the date of an election is changed pursuant to this section, at least one election shall be held before the resolution, as approved by the board of supervisors, may be subsequently repealed or amended. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 25. Effective September 30, 1996.)
  116. 1302.1.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A county or counties may approve consolidating trustee elections with the statewide general election for certain community college district trustee areas.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1302.1. In a community college district that includes the trustee areas authorized to be established pursuant to the second paragraph of Section 72022 of the Education Code, the consolidation of the election of trustees on the same date as the statewide general election pursuant to Section 1302 may be approved by any county or counties for the trustee areas located entirely within the county or counties. Approval by any county or counties in which the other trustee areas are located shall be deemed to meet the requirement of staggered terms set forth in Section 72022 of the Education Code. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 26. Effective September 30, 1996.)
  117. 1302.2.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Certain district election results may be consolidated with city elections, and related consolidations must be carried out when the stated written requests and consents are provided.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1302.2. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, when an elementary, unified, high school, or community college district includes within its boundaries the same territory, or territory that is in part the same, as a chartered city, the governing board member elections of the elementary, unified, high school, or community college district may be consolidated with the city election pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400) of Division 10. The consolidation shall be effected by the officer conducting the election having jurisdiction of the elementary, unified, high school, or community college district, upon the written request of the governing board of the elementary, unified, high school, or community college district and with the written consent of the legislative body of the city. This section shall control in the event of any conflict with a prior order of the county superintendent of schools made pursuant to Section 5340 of the Education Code. (b) When a high school district or community college district election is consolidated with that of a city pursuant to this section, and the high school district or community college district has within its boundaries component districts whose elections would otherwise be held on a date specified in this code, the elections in the component districts may be consolidated with the election in the high school district or community college district. The consolidation shall be effected by the officer conducting the election having jurisdiction of the component districts upon the written request of the governing boards thereof and with the written consent of the governing boards of the districts whose governing board member elections are to be consolidated with those of the component districts. (c) Successors to incumbents holding office upon the effective date of this section, who in the absence of this section would have been elected at a different time, shall be chosen for office at the election nearest the time the terms of office of the incumbents would have otherwise expired. If an incumbent’s term of office is extended because of this section, he or she shall hold office until a successor qualifies for the office, but in no event shall the term of an incumbent be extended to more than four years. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 27. Effective September 30, 1996.)
  118. 1302.3.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Certain unified districts must hold an annual board-of-education election in November, and the county superintendent of schools calls the election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1302.3. An annual election for members of the board of education shall be held in each unified district that is coterminous with or includes in its boundaries all or any portion of a chartered city or city and county the charter of which provides for a board of education, of five members with five-year terms, with the term of one member expiring each year. The election shall be held annually on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. The election shall be called by the county superintendent of schools and conducted in substantially the same manner as prescribed by Section 5000 of the Education Code. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 28. Effective September 30, 1996.)
  119. 1302.4.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The governing board may, by appropriate resolution, schedule a regular election for Long Beach Community College District board members on the same date as the Long Beach Unified School District City Board of Education election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1302.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a regular election for members of the Long Beach Community College District governing board may be held, upon the adoption of an appropriate resolution by the governing board, on the same date upon which the election for members of the City Board of Education of the Long Beach Unified School District is held pursuant to the City Charter of the City of Long Beach and Article 3 (commencing with Section 5340) of Chapter 3 of the Education Code. (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 29. Effective September 30, 1996.)
  120. 1302.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Certain school district governing board elections must be consolidated with the November general election when the required recommendation and approval are obtained.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1302.5. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, upon recommendation of the county superintendent of schools and with the approval of the county board of supervisors, the election of governing board members of school districts whose boundaries are coterminous with the boundaries of the county, shall be consolidated with the November general election pursuant to Part 3 (commencing with Section 10400) of Division 10. (1) The terms of members of the governing board elected pursuant to this section shall begin at noon on the first Monday after the first day in January following the general election and shall end at noon on the first Monday after the first day in January four years thereafter. (2) The terms of members of the governing board expiring on March 31 of any odd-numbered year next succeeding any general election shall expire at noon on the first Monday after the first day in January following the general election. (b) When the term of an incumbent expires at midnight on March 31 of an odd-numbered year and no successor has been elected because of the provisions of subdivision (a), the members of the board whose terms have not expired shall appoint a successor to serve until a successor is elected and qualifies pursuant to subdivision (a). (Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1143, Sec. 30. Effective September 30, 1996.)
  121. 1303.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Special districts subject to Division 10 must hold their general district election for governing board members on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each odd-numbered year, unless another date applies under the district’s principal act, Section 1500, or subdivision (b).

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1303. (a) Unless the principal act of a district provides that an election shall be held on one of the other dates specified in Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 1000) of Division 1, or except as provided in Section 1500, or except as provided in subdivision (b), a general district election to elect members of the governing board shall be held in each special district subject to Division 10 (commencing with Section 10000) on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November of each odd-numbered year. (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a governing body of a special district may require, by resolution, that its elections of governing body members be held on the same day as the statewide general election. The resolution shall become operative upon the approval of the board of supervisors pursuant to Section 10404. (Amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 810, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2004.)
  122. 1304.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Each district must hold a general district election on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November in each odd-numbered year, unless the district’s principal act sets a different allowed date.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 1. ESTABLISHED ELECTION DATES [1000 - 1500] ( Division 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Local Elections [1300 - 1304] ( Chapter 4 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 1304. Unless the principal act of a district provides that an election shall be held on one of the other dates specified in Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 1000) of Division 1, a general district election shall be held in each district on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November in each odd-numbered year to choose a successor for each elective officer the term of whose office will expire on the following first Friday in December. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  123. 13100.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    All ballots used in elections must follow this chapter, unless another provision specifically provides otherwise.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13100. All ballots used in all elections shall be governed by this chapter unless otherwise specifically provided. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  124. 13101.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If ballots for a precinct are lost or destroyed and an election is prevented, the precinct inspector or officer must send an affidavit to the Governor, who may or must order a new election depending on who applies.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13101. (a) In the case of the prevention of an election in any precinct by the loss or destruction of the ballots intended for that precinct, the inspector or other precinct officer for that precinct shall make an affidavit setting forth the fact and transmit it to the Governor. Upon receipt of the affidavit, the Governor may, and upon the application of any candidate for any office to be voted for by the voters of that precinct the Governor shall, order a new election in that precinct. (b) This section does not apply to elections conducted using vote centers. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 806, Sec. 41. (SB 286) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  125. 13102.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section requires ballots for elections and sets rules for partisan primary ballots, party rules, and ballot-request recordkeeping.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13102. (a) All voting shall be by ballot. There shall be provided, at each polling place, at each election at which public officers are to be voted for, but one form of ballot for all candidates for public office, except that, for partisan primary elections, one form of ballot shall be provided for each qualified political party as well as one form of nonpartisan ballot, in accordance with subdivision (b). (b) At partisan primary elections, each voter not registered disclosing a preference for any one of the political parties participating in the election shall be furnished only a nonpartisan ballot, unless the voter requests a ballot of a political party and that political party, by party rule duly noticed to the Secretary of State, authorizes a person who has declined to disclose a party preference to vote the ballot of that political party. The nonpartisan ballot shall contain only the names of all candidates for nonpartisan offices, voter-nominated offices, and measures to be voted for at the primary election. Each voter registered as preferring a political party participating in the election shall be furnished only a ballot for which the voter disclosed a party preference in accordance with Section 2151 or 2152 and the nonpartisan ballot, both of which shall be printed together as one ballot in the form prescribed by Section 13207. (c) A political party may adopt a party rule in accordance with subdivision (b) that authorizes a person who has declined to disclose a party preference to vote the ballot of that political party at the next ensuing partisan primary election. The political party shall notify the party chair immediately upon adoption of that party rule. The party chair shall provide written notice of the adoption of that rule to the Secretary of State not later than the 135th day before the partisan primary election at which the vote is authorized. (d) The county elections official shall maintain a record of which political party’s ballot was requested pursuant to subdivision (b), or whether a nonpartisan ballot was requested, by each person who declined to disclose a party preference. The record shall be made available to any person or committee who is authorized to receive copies of the printed roster for primary and general elections pursuant to Section 2184. A record produced pursuant to this subdivision shall be made available in either a printed or electronic format, as requested by the authorized person or committee. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 497, Sec. 106. (AB 991) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  126. 13103.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Every ballot must include office titles, qualified candidate names with stated substitutions, and the titles and summaries of measures.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13103. Every ballot shall contain all of the following: (a) The title of each office, arranged to conform as nearly as practicable to the plan set forth in this chapter. (b) The names of all qualified candidates, except that: (1) Instead of the names of candidates for delegate to the national conventions, there shall be printed the names of the presidential candidates to whom they are pledged or the names of candidates for chairmen of party national convention delegations. (2) Instead of the names of candidates for presidential electors, there shall be printed in pairs the names of the candidates of the respective parties for President and Vice President of the United States. These names shall appear under the title “President and Vice President.” (c) The titles and summaries of measures submitted to vote of the voters. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  127. 13104.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A candidate who changes their name within one year of an election cannot have the new name printed on the ballot unless the change was due to marriage or a court decree.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13104. (a) If a candidate changes their name within one year of any election, the new name shall not appear upon the ballot unless the change was made by either of the following: (1) Marriage. (2) Decree of any court of competent jurisdiction. (b) This section does not apply to candidates for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 72, Sec. 2. (SB 437) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  128. 13105.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots must show certain candidates’ party preference or party name in a specified location and type size, including “None” or “Independent” in some cases.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13105. (a) In the case of a candidate for a voter-nominated office in a primary election, a general election, or a special election to fill a vacancy in the office of United States Senator, Member of the United States House of Representatives, State Senator, or Member of the Assembly, immediately to the right of and following the name of the candidate, or immediately below the name if there is not sufficient space on the same line to the right of the name, there shall be identified in at least 8-point type, as specified by the Secretary of State, the designation made by the candidate pursuant to Section 8002.5. The identification shall be in substantially the following form: (1) In the case of a candidate who designated a political party preference pursuant to Section 8002.5, “Party Preference: ______.” (2) In the case of a candidate who did not state a preference for a political party pursuant to Section 8002.5, “Party Preference: None.” (b) In the case of candidates for President and Vice President, the name of the party shall appear to the right of and equidistant from the pair of names of these candidates and on the same line as the name of the candidate for President, or immediately below the name of the vice presidential candidate if there is not sufficient space to the right of the name. (c) If for a general election any candidate for President of the United States or Vice President of the United States has received the nomination of any additional party or parties, the name(s) shall be printed to the right of the name of the candidate’s own party, or immediately below the name if there is not sufficient space to the right of the name. Party names of a candidate shall be separated by commas. If a candidate has qualified for the ballot by virtue of an independent nomination, the word “Independent” shall be printed instead of the name of a political party in accordance with the above rules. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 14. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  129. 13106.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    On ballots, a candidate’s name must not appear on the same line as any title or degree in elections for office.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13106. No title or degree shall appear on the same line on a ballot as a candidate’s name, either before or after the candidate’s name, in the case of any election to any office. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  130. 13107.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section limits what ballot designations a candidate may use, and requires elections officials to reject noncompliant designations.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13107. (a) With the exception of candidates for Justice of the State Supreme Court or court of appeal, immediately under the name of each candidate, and not separated from the name by any line, unless the designation made by the candidate pursuant to Section 8002.5 must be listed immediately below the name of the candidate pursuant to Section 13105, and in that case immediately under the designation, may appear at the option of the candidate only one of the following designations: (1) Words designating the elective city, county, district, state, or federal office which the candidate holds at the time of filing the nomination documents to which the candidate was elected by vote of the people. (2) The word “incumbent” if the candidate is a candidate for the same office which the candidate holds at the time of filing the nomination papers, and was elected to that office by a vote of the people. A candidate shall not use the word “incumbent” if the candidate was elected to their office in an at-large election and is a candidate in a district-based election. (3) No more than three words designating either the current principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate, or the principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents. (4) The phrase “appointed incumbent” if the candidate holds an office by virtue of appointment, and the candidate is a candidate for election to the same office, or, if the candidate is a candidate for election to the same office or to some other office, the word “appointed” and the title of the office. In either instance, the candidate may not use the unmodified word “incumbent” or any words designating the office unmodified by the word “appointed.” However, the phrase “appointed incumbent” shall not be required of a candidate who seeks reelection to an office which the candidate holds and to which the candidate was appointed, as a nominated candidate, in lieu of an election, pursuant to Sections 5326 and 5328 of the Education Code or Section 7228, 7423, 7673, 10229, or 10515 of this code. (b) (1) Except as specified in paragraph (2), for candidates for judicial office, immediately under the name of each candidate, and not separated from the name by any line, only one of the following designations may appear at the option of the candidate: (A) Words designating the city, county, district, state, or federal office held by the candidate at the time of filing the nomination documents. (B) The word “incumbent” if the candidate is a candidate for the same office that the candidate holds at the time of filing the nomination papers. (C) No more than three words designating either the current principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate, or the principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents. (2) For a candidate for judicial office who is an active member of the State Bar employed by a city, county, district, state, or by the United States, the designation shall appear as one of the following: (A) Words designating the actual job title, as defined by statute, charter, or other governing instrument. (B) One of the following ballot designations: “Attorney,” “Attorney at Law,” “Lawyer,” or “Counselor at Law.” The designations “Attorney” and “Lawyer” may be used in combination with one other current principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate, or the principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents. (3) A designation made pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1) or paragraph (2) shall also contain relevant qualifiers, as follows: (A) If the candidate is an official or employee of a city, the name of the city shall appear preceded by the words “City of.” (B) If the candidate is an official or employee of a county, the name of the county shall appear preceded by the words “County of.” (C) If the candidate is an official or employee of a city and county, the name of the city and county shall appear preceded by the words “City and County.” (D) If the candidate performs quasi-judicial functions for a governmental agency, the full name of the agency shall be included. (c) A candidate for superior court judge who is an active member of the State Bar and practices law as one of the candidate’s principal professions shall use one of the following ballot designations as the candidate’s ballot designation: “Attorney,” “Attorney at Law,” “Lawyer,” or “Counselor at Law.” The designations “Attorney” and “Lawyer” may be used in combination with one other current principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate, or the principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents. (d) For purposes of this section, all California geographical names shall be considered to be one word. Hyphenated words that appear in any generally available standard reference dictionary, published in the United States at any time within the 10 calendar years immediately preceding the election for which the words are counted, including a generally available standard reference dictionary published online, shall be considered as one word. Each part of all other hyphenated words shall be counted as a separate word. (e) The Secretary of State and any other elections official shall not accept a designation of which any of the following would be true: (1) It would mislead the voter. (2) It would suggest an evaluation of a candidate, such as outstanding, leading, expert, virtuous, or eminent. (3) It abbreviates the word “retired” or places it following any word or words which it modifies. (4) It uses a word or prefix, such as “former” or “ex-,” which means a prior status. The only exception is the use of the word “retired.” (5) It uses the name of any political party, whether or not it has qualified for the ballot. (6) It uses a word or words referring to a racial, religious, or ethnic group. (7) It refers to any activity prohibited by law. (f) If, upon checking the nomination documents and the ballot designation worksheet described in Section 13107.3, the elections official finds the designation to be in violation of any of the restrictions set forth in this section, the elections official shall notify the candidate by registered or certified mail return receipt requested, addressed to the mailing address provided on the candidate’s ballot designation worksheet. (1) The candidate shall, within three days, excluding Saturday, Sunday, and state holidays, from the date the candidate receives notice by registered or certified mail, or from the date the candidate receives actual notice of the violation, whichever occurs first, appear before the elections official or, in the case of the Secretary of State, notify the Secretary of State by telephone, and provide a designation that complies with subdivision (a) or (b). (2) If a candidate fails to provide a designation that complies with subdivision (a) or (b) within the three-day period specified in paragraph (1), a designation shall not appear after the candidate’s name. (g) A designation given by a candidate shall not be changed by the candidate after the final date for filing nomination documents, except as specifically requested by the elections official as specified in subdivision (f) or as provided in subdivision (h). The elections official shall maintain a copy of the ballot designation worksheet for each candidate that appears on the ballot in the county for the same period of time as applied to nomination documents pursuant to Section 17100. (h) The designation shall remain the same for all purposes of both primary and general elections, unless the candidate, at least 98 days before the general election, requests in writing a different designation which the candidate is entitled to use at the time of the request. (i) In all cases, the words so used shall be printed in a manner consistent with the space requirements of Sections 13207 and 13211. (j) If a foreign language translation of a candidate’s designation is required under the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10101 et seq.), as amended, to appear on the ballot in addition to the English language version, it shall be as short as possible, as consistent as is practicable with this section, and shall employ abbreviations and initials wherever possible in order to avoid undue length. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 479, Sec. 9. (AB 1762) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  131. 13107.3.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Candidates who submit a ballot designation must file a supporting worksheet in the Secretary of State’s prescribed format, and it must be filed with the elections official at the same time as the declaration of candidacy.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13107.3. (a) A candidate who submits a ballot designation pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 13107 shall file a ballot designation worksheet that supports the use of that ballot designation by the candidate, in a format prescribed by the Secretary of State. (b) The ballot designation worksheet shall be filed with the elections official at the same time that the candidate files his or her declaration of candidacy. (c) In the event that a candidate fails to file a ballot designation worksheet in accordance with subdivision (a), no designation shall appear under the candidate’s name on the ballot. (Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 547, Sec. 3. (AB 1572) Effective January 1, 2010.)
  132. 13107.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A candidate may use the ballot designation “community volunteer” only if it is the candidate’s principal vocation or occupation, the candidate is not concurrently engaged in another principal vocation or occupation, and the designation is not combined with any other principal profession, vocation, or occupation designation.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13107.5. (a) A candidate’s ballot designation as “community volunteer” shall constitute a valid principal vocation or occupation for purposes of subdivision (a) of Section 13107, if not otherwise in violation of any of the restrictions set forth in that section, and subject to the following conditions: (1) A candidate’s community volunteer activities constitute his or her principal profession, vocation, or occupation. (2) A candidate is not engaged concurrently in another principal profession, vocation, or occupation. (3) A candidate may not use the designation of “community volunteer” in combination with any other principal profession, vocation, or occupation designation. (b) The Secretary of State shall by regulation define what constitutes a community volunteer for purposes of this section. (Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 364, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  133. 13108.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets rules for deciding which candidate is treated as the incumbent after district boundaries are adjusted.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13108. (a) At the first elections for Representative in Congress, State Senator, Member of the Assembly, and Member of the Board of Equalization in each congressional, senatorial, Assembly, and Board of Equalization district following the adjustment of the boundary lines of the congressional, senatorial, Assembly, and Board of Equalization districts by the Citizens Redistricting Commission pursuant to Section 6 of Article IV, Section 17 of Article XIII, and Section 1 of Article XXI, of the California Constitution, that candidate who shall be deemed the incumbent in a given district for purposes of the election shall be that candidate who is running for the same office that he or she then holds, and who is running for reelection in a district that has the identical boundaries and number as the district from which he or she was last elected. (b) In the event there is no candidate to whom subdivision (a) applies, the incumbent shall be that candidate who is running for the same office that he or she then holds, and who is running for reelection in a district that has the identical boundaries as the district from which he or she was last elected, but that has a different number. (c) In the event there is no candidate to whom subdivision (a) or (b) apply, the incumbent shall be that candidate who is running for the same office that he or she then holds, and who is running for reelection in a district that contains some portion of the territory previously contained within the district from which he or she was last elected. However, in a new district that contains portions of the territory of more than one former district, the incumbent shall be that candidate the greater portion of the population, as determined by the most recent federal decennial census, of whose former district is included within the new district. (d) In the event there is no candidate to whom subdivision (a), (b), or (c) apply, the incumbent shall be that candidate who is running for the same office that he or she then holds, and who is running for reelection in a district that has the identical number as the district from which he or she was last elected. However, a candidate for the office of Member of the Assembly shall be considered the incumbent in this case only if the district bearing the same number is located in the same county as the district that previously bore that number. (e) If there is no candidate in a given district to which any of the above provisions apply, the incumbent shall be the person who is a candidate for the same office that he or she then holds who fulfills the residency requirements of law for candidacy within the district. (Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 887, Sec. 1. (AB 1752) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  134. 13109.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets the ballot order for offices and measures and lets county elections officials in certain counties adjust some listed categories to save space, with fixed priority rules for some items.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13109. The order of precedence of offices on the ballot shall be as listed below for those offices and measures that apply to the election for which this ballot is provided. Beginning in the column to the left: (a) Under the heading, PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT: Nominees of the qualified political parties and independent nominees for President and Vice President. (b) Under the heading, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: (1) Names of the presidential candidates to whom the delegates are pledged. (2) Names of the chairpersons of unpledged delegations. (c) Under the heading, STATE: (1) Governor. (2) Lieutenant Governor. (3) Secretary of State. (4) Controller. (5) Treasurer. (6) Attorney General. (7) Insurance Commissioner. (8) Member, State Board of Equalization. (d) Under the heading, UNITED STATES SENATOR: Candidates or nominees to the United States Senate. (e) Under the heading, UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE: Candidates or nominees to the House of Representatives of the United States. (f) Under the heading, STATE SENATOR: Candidates or nominees to the State Senate. (g) Under the heading, MEMBER OF THE STATE ASSEMBLY: Candidates or nominees to the Assembly. (h) Under the heading, COUNTY COMMITTEE: Members of the County Central Committee. (i) Under the heading, JUDICIAL: (1) Chief Justice of California. (2) Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. (3) Presiding Justice, Court of Appeal. (4) Associate Justice, Court of Appeal. (5) Judge of the Superior Court. (6) Marshal. (j) Under the heading, SCHOOL: (1) Superintendent of Public Instruction. (2) County Superintendent of Schools. (3) County Board of Education Members. (4) College District Governing Board Members. (5) Unified District Governing Board Members. (6) High School District Governing Board Members. (7) Elementary District Governing Board Members. (k) Under the heading, COUNTY: (1) County Supervisor. (2) Other offices in alphabetical order by the title of the office. (l) Under the heading, CITY: (1) Mayor. (2) Member, City Council. (3) Other offices in alphabetical order by the title of the office. (m) Under the heading, DISTRICT: Directors or trustees for each district in alphabetical order according to the name of the district. (n) Under the heading, MEASURES SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS and the appropriate heading from subdivisions (a) through (m), above, ballot measures in the order, state through district shown above, and within each jurisdiction, in the order prescribed by the official certifying them for the ballot. (o) In order to allow for the most efficient use of space on the ballot in counties that use a voting system, as defined in Section 362, the county elections official may vary the order of subdivisions (j), (k), (l), (m), and (n) as well as the order of offices within these subdivisions. However, the office of Superintendent of Public Instruction shall always precede any school, county, or city office, and state measures shall always precede local measures. (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 784, Sec. 99. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  135. 13109.10.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    For certain consolidated special elections in Los Angeles County, the ballot order must follow the sequence set out in this section, and the section later repeals itself on a specified date.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13109.10. (a) When a special election to fill a vacancy in the State Senate, State Assembly, United States House of Representatives, or United States Senate is consolidated with the regularly scheduled election for that office for the term following the term in which the vacancy occurred, the order of precedence of offices on the ballot for the County of Los Angeles shall be as listed in this section. Beginning in the column to the left: (1) Under the heading, REGULAR ELECTION: Candidates or nominees to the State Senate, State Assembly, United States House of Representatives, or United States Senate, as applicable, for the term following the term in which the vacancy occurred. (2) Under the heading, SPECIAL ELECTION: Candidates or nominees to the State Senate, State Assembly, United States House of Representatives, or United States Senate, as applicable, for the remainder of the term in which the vacancy occurred. (3) All other offices and measures shall be listed after the offices listed pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (2) according to the alternate ballot order described in Section 13109.8. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until the first January 1 that occurs at least four years after the declaration date described in subdivision (a) of Section 13109.7, and as of that date is repealed. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 316, Sec. 4. (AB 1495) Effective January 1, 2022. Repealed on date prescribed by its own provisions.)
  136. 13109.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The elections official may place certain offices on the ballot in a specified order, or at the end of the ballot if needed.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13109.5. Notwithstanding anything in Section 13109 to the contrary, and to facilitate compliance with Section 13206, the elections official may list the offices specified in subdivision (h) of Section 13109 directly after the offices specified in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 13109, when the offices specified in those subsections are on the ballot, or at the end of the ballot in elections at which the offices specified in subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 13109 are not listed on the ballot. (Added by Stats. 2009, Ch. 1, Sec. 47. (SB 6) Effective January 1, 2010. Operative January 1, 2011, pursuant to Sec. 67 of Ch. 1.)
  137. 13109.7.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    In Los Angeles County, election officials must use an alternate ballot order for certain elections, prepare and publish a report about its effects, and send the report and declaration to state and legislative officials.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13109.7. (a) (1) Notwithstanding Section 13109, for a period of three years commencing with the date that the county elections official for the County of Los Angeles declares that the voting system modernization project underway in 2018 is complete and ready for operation, the county elections official for the County of Los Angeles shall conduct elections using the alternate ballot order described in Section 13109.8. (2) When a special election to fill a vacancy in the State Senate, State Assembly, United States House of Representatives, or United States Senate is consolidated with the regularly scheduled election for that office for the term following the term in which the vacancy occurred, the County of Los Angeles shall conduct elections using the alternate ballot order described in Section 13109.10. (b) The county elections official shall prepare a report regarding the effect of using the alternate ballot order for elections conducted during the time period described in subdivision (a). The report shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: (1) Statistics and information on the cost of transitioning to the use of the alternate ballot order. (2) The overall turnout of voters in the jurisdiction for each election conducted using the alternate ballot order. (3) For different contests listed on the ballot, including, but not limited to, local offices and local ballot measures, state offices and state ballot measures, and federal offices, the following information: (A) The turnout of voters for each contest. (B) The number of overvotes and undervotes for each contest. (C) The dropoff rates for each contest. (4) Legislative recommendations. (c) The report described in subdivision (b) shall, whenever possible, compare an election conducted pursuant to this section and using the alternate ballot order described in Section 13109.8 to similar elections conducted using the ballot order described in Section 13109 in the same jurisdiction or in a comparable jurisdiction. (d) Three years after the declaration date described in subdivision (a), the county elections official shall submit the report described in subdivision (b) to the Secretary of State and to the Legislature in accordance with Section 9795 of the Government Code. The county elections official shall also post a publicly accessible copy of the report on the internet website of the county elections official. (e) Notwithstanding any other law, the county elections official may adjust ballot instructions to the extent necessary to comply with this section. (f) Immediately after making the declaration described in subdivision (a), the county elections official shall post the declaration on the county election official’s internet website and send the declaration to the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Senate, the Chief Clerk of the Assembly, and the Legislative Counsel. (g) This section shall remain in effect only until the first January 1 that occurs at least four years after the declaration date described in subdivision (a), and as of that date is repealed. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 316, Sec. 2. (AB 1495) Effective January 1, 2022. Repealed on date prescribed by its own provisions.)
  138. 13109.8.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets the required order of offices and measures on ballots for the elections it covers.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13109.8. For the purposes of Sections 13109.7 and 13109.9, the order of precedence of offices on the ballot shall be as listed below for those offices and measures that apply to the election for which the ballot is provided. Beginning in the column to the left: (a) Under the heading, CITY/LOCAL: (1) Mayor. (2) Member, City Council. (3) Unified School District Board Members. (4) High School District Board Members. (5) Elementary School District Board Members. (6) College District Governing Board Members. (7) Other offices in alphabetical order by the title of the office. (8) Candidates or nominees to the State Senate. (9) Candidates or nominees to the State Assembly. (10) Candidates or nominees to the House of Representatives of the United States. (11) City local initiatives and ballot measures. (12) Local school district initiatives and ballot measures. (b) Under the heading, DISTRICT: (1) Directors or trustees for each district in alphabetical order according to the name of the district. (2) District initiatives and ballot measures. (c) Under the heading, COUNTY: (1) County Supervisor. (2) Sheriff. (3) Assessor. (4) County Superintendent of Schools. (5) County Board of Education. (6) Other offices in alphabetical order by the title of the office. (7) Judge of the Superior Court. (8) County Marshall. (9) Members of the County Central Committee. (10) County initiatives and ballot measures. (d) Under the heading, STATE: (1) Governor. (2) Lieutenant Governor. (3) Secretary of State. (4) Controller. (5) Treasurer. (6) Attorney General. (7) Insurance Commissioner. (8) Member, State Board of Equalization. (9) Superintendent of Public Instruction. (10) Statewide initiatives and ballot measures. (e) Under the heading, STATE JUDICIAL: (1) Chief Justice of California. (2) Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. (3) Presiding Judge, Court of Appeal. (4) Associate Justice, Court of Appeal. (f) Under the heading, NATIONAL ELECTION: (1) Under the subheading, PRESIDENT and VICE PRESIDENT: (A) Nominees of the qualified political parties and independent nominees for President and Vice President. (B) Names of the presidential candidates to whom the delegates are pledged. (C) Names of the chairperson of unpledged delegations. (2) Candidates or nominees to the United States Senate. (Added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 927, Sec. 2. (SB 25) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  139. 13109.9.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The Los Angeles County elections official may use the alternate ballot order after the pilot project is completed, and may change ballot instructions as needed to match that order.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13109.9. Notwithstanding Section 13109, the county elections official for the County of Los Angeles may use the alternate ballot order described in Sections 13109.8 and 13109.10 for elections conducted after the completion of the pilot project described in Section 13109.7. Notwithstanding any other law, the county elections official may adjust ballot instructions to the extent necessary to conform to the alternate ballot order. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 316, Sec. 3. (AB 1495) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  140. 13110.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Candidate names for an office must appear the same on all ballots for voters entitled to vote for that office, with special ballot placement rules for partisan primary elections.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13110. The group of names of candidates for any partisan office, voter-nominated office, or nonpartisan office shall be the same on the ballots of all voters entitled to vote for candidates for that office, except that in partisan primary elections, the names of candidates for nomination to partisan office shall appear only on the ballots of the political party, the nomination of which they seek, and candidates for election to a political party committee shall appear only on the ballots of the political party for which the candidate seeks election. (Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 1, Sec. 48. (SB 6) Effective January 1, 2010. Operative January 1, 2011, pursuant to Sec. 67 of Ch. 1.)
  141. 13111.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The Secretary of State and certain local election officials must arrange candidate names on ballots using the randomized alphabet and rotation rules described here.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13111. Candidates for each office shall be printed on the ballot in accordance with the following rules: (a) The names of presidential candidates to whom candidates for delegate to the national convention are pledged, and the names of chairpersons of groups of candidates for delegate expressing no preference, shall be arranged on the primary election ballot by the Secretary of State by the names of the candidates in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112 in the case of the ballots for the First Assembly District. Thereafter, for each succeeding Assembly district, the name appearing first in the last preceding Assembly district shall be placed last, the order of the other names remaining unchanged. (b) The names of the pairs of candidates for President and Vice President shall be arranged on the general election ballot by the Secretary of State by the names of the candidates for President in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112 in the case of the ballots for the First Assembly District. Thereafter, for each succeeding Assembly district, the pair appearing first in the last preceding Assembly district shall be placed last, the order of the other pairs remaining unchanged. (c) In the case of all other offices, the candidates for which are to be voted on throughout the state, the Secretary of State shall arrange the names of the candidates for the office in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112 for the First Assembly District. Thereafter, for each succeeding Assembly district, the name appearing first in the last preceding Assembly district shall be placed last, the order of the other names remaining unchanged. (d) If the office is that of Representative in Congress or member of the State Board of Equalization, the Secretary of State shall arrange the names of candidates for the office in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112 for that Assembly district that has the lowest number of all the Assembly districts in which candidates are to be voted on. Thereafter, for each succeeding Assembly district in which the candidates are to be voted on, the names appearing first in the last preceding Assembly district shall be placed last, the order of the other names remaining unchanged. (e) If the office is that of State Senator or Member of the Assembly, the county elections official shall arrange the names of the candidates for the office in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112, unless the district encompasses more than one county, in which case the arrangement shall be made pursuant to subdivision (i). (f) If the office is to be voted upon wholly within, but not throughout, one county, as in the case of municipal, district, county supervisor, and county central committee offices, the official responsible for conducting the election shall determine the order of names in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112. (g) If the office is to be voted on throughout a single county, and there are not more than four Assembly districts wholly or partly in the county, the county elections official shall determine the order of names in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112 for the first supervisorial district. Thereafter, for each succeeding supervisorial district, the name appearing first for each office in the last preceding supervisorial district shall be placed last, the order of the other names remaining unchanged. (h) If there are five or more Assembly districts wholly or partly in the county, an identical procedure shall be followed, except that rotation shall be by Assembly district, commencing with the Assembly district which has the lowest number. (i) Except as provided in subdivision (d) of Section 13112, if the office is that of State Senator or Member of the Assembly, and the district includes more than one county, the county elections official in each county shall conduct a drawing of the letters of the alphabet, pursuant to the same procedures specified in Section 13112. The results of the drawing shall be known as a county randomized ballot and shall be used only to arrange the names of the candidates when the district includes more than one county. (j) If the office is that of Justice of the California Supreme Court or a court of appeal, the appropriate elections officials shall arrange the names of the candidates for the office in accordance with the randomized alphabet as provided for in Section 13112. However, the names of the judicial candidates shall not be rotated among the applicable districts. (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 784, Sec. 100. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  142. 13112.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The Secretary of State must conduct public randomized-alphabet drawings and use them to determine ballot order for candidates.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13112. The Secretary of State shall conduct a drawing of the letters of the alphabet, the result of which shall be known as a randomized alphabet. The procedure shall be as follows: (a) Each letter of the alphabet shall be written on a separate slip of paper, each of which shall be folded and inserted into a capsule. Each capsule shall be opaque and of uniform weight, color, size, shape, and texture. The capsules shall be placed in a container, which shall be shaken vigorously in order to mix the capsules thoroughly. The container then shall be opened and the capsules removed at random one at a time. As each is removed, it shall be opened and the letter on the slip of paper read aloud and written down. The resulting random order of letters constitutes the randomized alphabet, which is to be used in the same manner as the conventional alphabet in determining the order of all candidates in all elections. For example, if two candidates with the surnames Campbell and Carlson are running for the same office, their order on the ballot will depend on the order in which the letters M and R were drawn in the randomized alphabet drawing. (b) (1) There shall be six drawings, three in each even-numbered year and three in each odd-numbered year. Each drawing shall be held at 11 a.m. on the date specified in this subdivision. The results of each drawing shall be mailed immediately to each county elections official responsible for conducting an election to which the drawing is applicable, who shall use it in determining the order on the ballot of the names of the candidates for office. (A) The first drawing under this subdivision shall take place on the 82nd day before the April general law city elections of an even-numbered year, and shall apply to those elections and any other elections held at the same time. (B) The second drawing under this subdivision shall take place on the 82nd day before the direct primary of an even-numbered year, and shall apply to all candidates on the ballot in that election. (C) (i) The third drawing under this subdivision shall take place on the 82nd day before the November general election of an even-numbered year, and shall apply to all candidates on the ballot in the November general election. (ii) In the case of the primary election and the November general election, the Secretary of State shall certify and transmit to each county elections official the order in which the names of federal and state candidates, with the exception of candidates for State Senate and Assembly, shall appear on the ballot. The elections official shall determine the order on the ballot of all other candidates using the appropriate randomized alphabet for that purpose. (D) The fourth drawing under this subdivision shall take place on the 82nd day before the March general law city elections of each odd-numbered year, and shall apply to those elections and any other elections held at the same time. (E) The fifth drawing under this subdivision shall take place on the 82nd day before the first Tuesday after the first Monday in June of each odd-numbered year, and shall apply to all candidates on the ballot in the elections held on that date. (F) The sixth drawing under this subdivision shall take place on the 82nd day before the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of the odd-numbered year, and shall apply to all candidates on the ballot in the elections held on that date. (2) In the event there is to be an election of candidates to a special district, school district, charter city, or other local government body at the same time as one of the five major election dates specified in subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, and the last possible day to file nomination papers for the local election would occur after the date of the drawing for the major election date, the procedure set forth in Section 13113 shall apply. (c) Each randomized alphabet drawing shall be open to the public. At least 10 days prior to a drawing, the Secretary of State shall notify the news media and other interested parties of the date, time, and place of the drawing. The president of each statewide association of local officials with responsibilities for conducting elections shall be invited by the Secretary of State to attend each drawing or send a representative. The state chairman of each qualified political party shall be invited to attend or send a representative in the case of drawings held to determine the order of candidates on the primary election ballot, the November general election ballot, or a special election ballot as provided for in subdivision (d). (d) In the case of any special election for State Assembly, State Senate, or Representative in Congress, on the first weekday after the close of filing of nomination papers for the office, the Secretary of State shall conduct a public drawing to produce a randomized alphabet in the same manner as provided for in subdivisions (a) and (c). The resulting randomized alphabet shall be used for determining the order on the ballot of the candidates in both the primary election for the special election and in the special election. (Amended by Stats. 2006, Ch. 508, Sec. 7. Effective January 1, 2007.)
  143. 13113.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section sets who must notify the Secretary of State, when randomized alphabet drawings must be done, and how the drawing results are used for ballot order.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13113. (a) In the case of an election of candidates in a special district, school district, charter city (whose charter does not provide to the contrary), or other local government body, occurring on other than one of the election dates specified in subdivision (b) of Section 13112, the official responsible for conducting the election shall, at the same time that the election is called, notify the Secretary of State by electronic delivery of the date of the election, the date of the close of filing, and the last possible date for filing in the event there is an extension of filing due to an incumbent failing to file, and the Secretary of State shall confirm receipt of that information in writing by electronic delivery. The Secretary of State shall conduct a randomized alphabet drawing pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 13112 on the first weekday following the last possible day of filing in the event there is an extension for the election. (b) Except as provided for runoff elections in subdivision (d), if two or more drawings for local government elections would occur on the same date, the Secretary of State may use a single randomized alphabet drawing for all of these elections. The Secretary of State shall communicate the results of the drawing by electronic delivery to each respective official responsible for conducting the election who shall use it to determine the order on the ballot of all candidates’ names. Each respective official shall confirm receipt of the drawing results in writing by electronic delivery to the Secretary of State. (c) All drawings held pursuant to this section shall be open to the public. (d) If a charter city conducts a runoff election, it shall use the results of a randomized alphabet drawing separate from the results of the randomized alphabet drawing used for the initial election for that runoff election. The city shall, within three days following the initial election, notify the Secretary of State by electronic delivery of the date of the election and request that the Secretary of State conduct a randomized alphabet drawing for the runoff election. The Secretary of State shall confirm receipt of the request in writing by electronic delivery to the city, and shall immediately conduct a randomized alphabet drawing for the runoff election and communicate the results of the drawing to the elections official responsible for conducting the runoff election who shall use the results to determine the order of all the candidates’ names on the ballot. The results of the randomized alphabet drawing shall be clearly labeled “FOR USE IN A RUNOFF ELECTION ONLY.” (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 304, Sec. 9. (AB 1513) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  144. 13114.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A city council may adopt a resolution to rotate candidate names on the ballot for certain city elections, but it must follow the section’s cluster rules and timing requirements.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13114. (a) At any regular meeting of a city council held prior to the date on which the Secretary of State conducts the randomized alphabet drawing applicable to the regular municipal election under Section 13112, or, under Section 13113, applicable to a special election called to fill a vacancy on the city council, the city council may, by resolution, provide for the rotation on the ballot of the names of candidates for any elective city office. (b) A resolution adopted pursuant to subdivision (a) shall specify which regular statewide election precincts or, if precincts have been consolidated for purposes of the city election, which consolidated precincts, shall constitute each cluster of precincts for purposes of the rotation of candidates’ names on the ballot. (c) (1) As used in this section, a “cluster” shall consist of one or more precincts which need not be contiguous. The clusters of precincts shall be numbered in consecutive order for purposes of ballot rotation of candidates’ names, and the resolution shall list the clusters by number and identify which precincts are in each cluster. (2) No cluster of precincts shall contain a number of registered voters which is more than 10 percent greater or lesser than the average number of registered voters for a cluster as of the most recent estimate by the county elections official of the number of registered voters in each regular precinct in the city prior to the adoption of the resolution. The resolution shall set forth the total number of registered voters in each cluster. (d) A resolution adopted pursuant to subdivision (a) shall specify that, in the cluster designated as cluster number one, the names shall appear on the ballot in the order determined by the Secretary of State’s randomized alphabet drawing. For each successive cluster, the resolution shall specify the manner of determining the order of the candidates’ names by applying the following: (1) If the number of candidates for an office is equal to or less than the number of clusters, in cluster number two and each successive cluster, the name appearing first in the last preceding cluster shall be placed last, the order of the other names remaining unchanged. (2) If the number of candidates for an office is greater than the number of clusters, the former shall be divided by the latter. If the resulting quotient is a mixed number and the fractional part of the mixed number is less than one-half, the fraction shall be discarded. If the fractional part of the mixed number is one-half or greater, the quotient shall be raised to the next largest whole number. The whole number that results from this process shall be the number of candidates that, in cluster number two and each successive cluster, shall be taken from the beginning of the list and placed at the end of the list, the order of the other names remaining unchanged. (e) (1) No city may provide for rotation of candidates’ names on the ballot for a particular election unless the resolution authorizing it, in accordance with this section, is adopted by the city council at a regular meeting, at which the city elections official has provided cost estimates of this rotation, prior to the date of the randomized alphabet drawing applicable to the election. (2) A city council resolution that provides for rotation of candidates’ names pursuant to this section for any election which is consolidated with any county or state election shall also provide for the payment of computer programming, formatting, preparation, and all similar related administrative costs associated with development of the ballot on which those names appear. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  145. 13115.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    State measures must appear on the ballot in a set order.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13115. The order in which all state measures that are to be submitted to the voters shall appear on the ballot is as follows: (a) Bond measures, including those proposed by initiative, in the order in which they qualify. (b) Constitutional amendments, including those proposed by initiative, in the order in which they qualify. (c) Legislative measures, other than those described in subdivision (a) or (b), in the order in which they are approved by the Legislature. (d) Initiative measures, other than those described in subdivision (a) or (b), in the order in which they qualify. (e) Referendum measures, in the order in which they qualify. (Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 76, Sec. 57. (AB 383) Effective January 1, 2014.)
  146. 13116.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    State measures must be numbered in numerical order, while county, city, and other local measures are lettered; elections officials may use a different starting letter or coordinate with nearby local governments to avoid voter confusion.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13116. (a) In an election at which state, county, city, or other local measures are submitted to a vote of the voters, all state measures shall be numbered in numerical order, as provided in this chapter or division. All county, city, or other local measures shall be designated by a letter, instead of a figure, printed on the left margin of the square containing the description of the measure, commencing with the letter “A” and continuing in alphabetical order, one letter for each of these measures appearing on the ballot. (b) An elections official may commence designating local measures with any letter of the alphabet following the letter “A,” and continuing in alphabetical order, in order to avoid voter confusion that might result from different local measures carrying the same letter designation in successive elections. (c) Where two or more counties or cities submitting measures to the voters are in close proximity, the elections officials of those counties or cities may mutually agree to use letter designation for ballot measures that will not conflict or confuse the voter. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  147. 13117.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    State measures submitted to voters must be numbered in a continuous sequence starting at 1.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13117. (a) Commencing with the November 3, 1998, general election, all state measures in all elections at which state measures are submitted to a vote of the voters shall be numbered in a continuous sequence, commencing with the number “1” and continuing in numerical sequence for a period of 10 years from the year of commencement. (b) At the completion of a 10-year cycle, the numbering sequence shall recommence with the number “1” at the next election at which state measures are submitted to a vote of the voters. (Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 58, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 1997.)
  148. 13118.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If a candidate thinks another candidate has a confusingly similar name for the same office, the candidate may file a statement, and the elections official must number the similar-name candidates and print a warning on the ballot and voter information materials.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13118. The following rules apply when a person who is a candidate for an office believes that another person with a name that is so similar that it may be confused with the candidate’s name has filed or will file a nomination paper for the same office: (a) The candidate may, at the time of filing the candidate’s nomination paper, or within five days after the time for filing nomination papers has expired, file with the elections official a statement that shall be in substance as follows: “I ____, believe that another person, whose name is so similar to mine that it may be confused with mine, has filed or will file a nomination paper for the same office for which I have filed a nomination paper, and I therefore request and direct that the elections official assign a number to each candidate with a similar name to be printed on the ballot as a distinguishing mark. _____ _____ Name Candidate for the office of ” (b) The distinguishing mark shall be a number, commencing with the number “1” and continuing in numerical sequence until each candidate with a similar name has been assigned a distinguishing number, and shall be printed at the right of the name on the ballot. (c) The first candidate who filed the candidate’s nomination papers shall have the number “1” and each subsequent candidate, based on the time of filing the candidate’s nomination papers, shall be assigned the next number in numerical sequence. (d) In addition to the designated numbers that the elections official shall place on the ballot when the above conditions are met, the elections official shall place on the ballot, immediately preceding the names of the candidates to be voted upon, or on the contest header if there is not sufficient space immediately preceding the name, the following warning: “Warning! There are two (or applicable number) candidates for this office with identical names.” This warning shall also be included, in a prominent manner, on any state voter information guide, county voter information guide, or other mailing sent by the elections official, before the election, to persons eligible to vote for this office. (e) To determine the order on the ballot for the candidates with similar names, the elections official shall conduct a drawing of the numbers assigned to the candidates in a similar manner as provided for in Section 13112. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 863, Sec. 2. (AB 623) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  149. 13119.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots for certain measures must use specified wording, include Yes/No options with voting targets, and use a true, impartial, nonargumentative statement of the measure.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13119. (a) The ballots used when voting upon a measure proposed by a local governing body or submitted to the voters as an initiative or referendum measure pursuant to Division 9 (commencing with Section 9000), including a measure authorizing the issuance of bonds or the incurrence of debt, shall have printed on them the words “Shall the measure (stating the nature thereof) be adopted?” To the right or below the statement of the measure to be voted on, the words “Yes” and “No” shall be printed on separate lines, with voting targets. If a voter marks the voting target next to the printed word “Yes,” the voter’s vote shall be counted in favor of the adoption of the measure. If the voter marks the voting target next to the printed word “No,” the voter’s vote shall be counted against its adoption. (b) If the proposed measure imposes a tax or raises the rate of a tax, the ballot shall include in the statement of the measure to be voted on the amount of money to be raised annually and the rate and duration of the tax to be levied. (c) The statement of the measure shall be a true and impartial synopsis of the purpose of the proposed measure, and shall be in language that is neither argumentative nor likely to create prejudice for or against the measure. (d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings: (1) “Local governing body” means the governing body of a city, county, city and county, including a charter city or charter county, or district, including a school district. (2) “Target” means an object designated as the aim for a voter to make a vote selection. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 863, Sec. 3. (AB 623) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  150. 13120.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots for referendum measures must print the required question wording and the Yes/No or Keep/Overturn labels with voting targets.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13120. (a) The ballots used when voting upon a county, city, or district ordinance referred to the voters of the respective jurisdiction as a referendum measure pursuant to Division 9 (commencing with Section 9000) shall have printed on them the words “Shall the ordinance (stating the nature thereof, including any identifying number or title) be adopted?” Opposite the statement of the ordinance to be voted on and to its right, or immediately below if there is not sufficient space opposite the statement of the ordinance and to its right, the words “Yes” and “No” shall be printed on separate lines, with voting targets. If a voter marks the voting target next to the printed word “Yes,” the voter’s vote shall be counted in favor of the adoption of the ordinance. If the voter marks the voting target next to the printed word “No,” the voter’s vote shall be counted against its adoption. (b) The ballots used when voting upon a state statute referred to the voters of the state as a referendum measure pursuant to Division 9 (commencing with Section 9000) shall have printed on them the words “Shall California keep or overturn a law passed in [enter year statute was enacted] [followed by no more than 15 words stating the general subject or nature of the law]? Opposite the statement of the statute to be voted on and to its right, or immediately below if there is not sufficient space opposite the statement of the statute and to its right, the words “Keep the law” and “Overturn the law” shall be printed on separate lines, with voting targets. If a voter marks the voting target next to the printed words “Keep the law,” the voter’s vote shall be counted in favor of the adoption of the statute. If the voter marks the voting target next to the printed words “Overturn the law,” the voter’s vote shall be counted against its adoption. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 162, Sec. 8. (AB 421) Effective September 8, 2023.)
  151. 13121.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    In a school election, the county elections official does not have to give the same voter more than one ballot for separate propositions, and a voter must not be given a ballot for a proposition they are not entitled to vote on because they do not live in the affected district or area.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Forms of Ballots: Ballot Order [13100 - 13121] ( Chapter 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13121. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, the county elections official conducting any school election shall not be required to provide more than one ballot to the same voter for the purpose of voting on separate propositions at the same election. However, no voter shall be presented with a ballot containing a proposition on which he or she is not entitled to vote by reason of not residing within the district or area affected by the proposition. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  152. 13200.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots that are not printed in substantial compliance with this chapter may not be cast or counted at any election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13200. Ballots not printed in substantial compliance with this chapter shall not be cast nor counted at any election. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 15. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  153. 13201.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Each political party’s central committee must design its ballots so they are clearly distinguishable from, and not confused with, other parties’ ballots.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13201. The ballots of each political party’s central committee shall be designed so that each ballot may be easily and clearly distinguished from, and not confused with, a ballot of any other political party. (Amended by Stats. 1998, Ch. 199, Sec. 43. Effective January 1, 1999.)
  154. 13202.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots of the same sort for the same polling place must be printed to match in size, paper, type, and ink, and candidate names must use the same type size and character, with a special minimum size rule for multilingual ballots.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13202. (a) All ballots of the same sort prepared by any county elections official, clerk or secretary of a legislative body, or other person having charge of preparing ballots for the same polling place, shall be precisely the same size, arrangement, quality and tint of paper, and kind of type, and shall be printed with ink of the same tint, so that without the numbers on the stubs it is impossible to distinguish any one of the ballots from the other ballots of the same sort. (b) The names of all candidates printed upon the ballot shall be in type of the same size and character. If there is not sufficient space for a candidate name, the size may be adjusted as close as possible to the size and character of all the other candidate names printed upon the ballot. (c) For multilingual ballots, if there is not sufficient space to print candidate names in at least 10-point bold type, as required by Section 13211, the size of candidate names shall be uniformly adjusted to a size that is no less than 8-point type. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 16. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  155. 13203.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots must include specified headings and election details in set type sizes, plus a ballot style identifier or other district-identifying means.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13203. At the top of the first page of the ballot shall be printed in at least 16-point bold type the words “Official Ballot.” Beneath this heading, the name of the election shall be printed in at least 12-point bold type and, in the case of a partisan primary election, the official party designation or the words “Nonpartisan Ballot” shall be printed, as applicable. After the heading line or lines, there shall be printed, in at least 12-point type, the date of the election and, in at least 8-point type, the name of the county in which the ballot is to be voted. The county name may alternatively be displayed in the county seal or logo. In addition, the ballot shall have printed, at the top or bottom of each card, a ballot style identifier or some other means of identifying the number of the congressional, Senate, and Assembly district. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 17. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  156. 13204.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballot instructions must be printed in a specific place, use at least 10-point type, and be clearly separated from contests. They must explain how to vote, how to write in a candidate, and what to do after a mistake.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13204. (a) The instructions to voters shall be printed below the ballot identification and above the contests to be voted on, or in the first column of the ballot as long as no contest is placed below the instructions in that column. The instructions shall be in at least 10-point type and in an area clearly separated from the ballot contests. (b) (1) The instructions shall be written in plain language to communicate the following information: (A) How to vote for a candidate or in a contest with “Yes” and “No” options. (B) How to write in a candidate. (C) What to do if a mistake is made. (2) The instructions may also include warnings and checks to help voters mark their ballot correctly and avoid errors. Instructions for specific types of contests are required only if a contest of that type appears on the ballot. (c) (1) For purposes of the instructions described in this section, the following text is recommended: “Instructions for voting To vote for a candidate, completely fill in the [voting target] next to the candidate’s name or the word “Yes” or “No.” To vote for a qualified write-in candidate, write the name in the blank space provided and fill in the [voting target]. If you make a mistake, [instructions for making a correction] [or ask for a new ballot]. Make sure your vote counts. Use a [blue or black ballpoint pen]. Do not select more candidates than the number to be elected. You may vote in as many or as few contests as you want. A mistake in one contest does not affect the rest of the ballot.” (2) The recommended instructions in paragraph (1) may be modified to apply to the voting system and ballot format in each county, and the administration of elections in that county. (d) The instructions may be accompanied by illustrations, customized to the ballot design in each county, that show the correct way of marking a selection on the ballot, writing in a candidate name, or correcting a mistake. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 19. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  157. 13206.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section requires specific ballot wording to be printed in direct primary elections for partisan, voter-nominated, and nonpartisan contests.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13206. (a) (1) On the partisan ballot used in a direct primary election, immediately before or above the contest for President, the following words shall be printed on ballots of parties that require registration as a member of the party to vote in the party’s primary election: “Party-Nominated Offices Only voters registered as a member of the [name of party] may vote in this primary election for President and party committee.” (2) In the same location, the following words shall be printed on ballots of parties that permit voters who have not disclosed a party preference to vote in the party’s primary: “Party-Nominated Offices Voters registered as a member of the [name of party] may vote in this primary election for President and party committee. Some parties may allow voters with no party preference to vote in the party’s primary election for President.” (3) For voting systems that do not allow variance in instructions, the following words shall be printed: “Party-Nominated Offices Voters registered as a member of the same party as the candidates may vote in this primary election for President and party committee. Some parties may allow voters with no party preference to vote in the party’s primary election for President.” (b) Before or above the first voter-nominated contest, the following words shall be printed: “Voter-Nominated Offices All voters may vote in these contests. Candidates display a party preference (or None) for the information of voters. This is not a party endorsement or approval.” (c) Before or above the first nonpartisan contest, or in the same area as the notice for voter-nominated offices, the following words shall be printed: “Nonpartisan Offices All voters may vote in these contests. Candidates for these offices do not display a party preference.” (Repealed and added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 21. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  158. 13206.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Certain wording must be printed on ballots used in specified statewide general elections.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13206.5. (a) (1) On the ballot used in a statewide general election in each year evenly divisible by the number four, immediately before or above the contest for President, the following words shall be printed: “Party-Nominated Offices Candidates for these offices are the official nominee of the party displayed with their name.” (2) On the ballot used in a statewide general election in each year evenly divisible by the number four, following the portion of the ballot for party-nominated offices, the following words shall be printed: “Voter-Nominated and Nonpartisan Offices Candidates display a party preference (or None) for the information of voters. This is not a party endorsement or approval.” (b) On the ballot used in a statewide general election in each even-numbered year that is not evenly divisible by the number four, immediately below the instructions to voters, the following words shall be printed: “Voter-Nominated and Nonpartisan Offices Candidates display a party preference (or None) for the information of voters. This is not a party endorsement or approval.” (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 22. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  159. 13207.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    This section tells how ballot columns must be laid out and what ballot items must appear in them.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13207. (a) There shall be printed on the ballot in parallel columns all of the following: (1) The respective offices. (2) The names of candidates with sufficient blank spaces to allow the voters to write in names not printed on the ballot, except that no spaces shall be printed for voter-nominated offices at a general election. (3) Whatever measures have been submitted to the voters. (b) In the case of a ballot which is intended for use in a party primary and which carries partisan offices, voter-nominated offices, and nonpartisan offices, a vertical solid black line shall divide the columns containing partisan offices, on the left, from the columns containing nonpartisan offices and voter-nominated offices, on the right. (c) The standard width of columns containing partisan offices, nonpartisan offices, and voter-nominated offices, shall be three inches except that an elections official may vary the width of these columns by up to one inch. The column containing presidential and vice presidential candidates may be as wide as four inches. (d) A measure that is to be submitted to the voters shall be printed in one or more parallel columns to the right of the columns containing the names of candidates and shall be of sufficient width to contain the title and summary of the measure. To the right of or below the title and summary shall be printed, on separate lines, the words “Yes” and “No.” (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 57, Sec. 5. (AB 2835) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  160. 13208.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballot voting targets must be printed next to each voting option, and the standard target must be at least 0.12 inches across.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13208. (a) A voting target shall be printed next to the name of each voting option. The voting targets shall be used by the voters to express their choices as provided for in the instruction to voters. (b) The standard voting target shall be at least 0.12 inches across in either dimension. (c) As used in this section, “target” means an object designated as the aim for a voter to make a vote selection. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 23. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  161. 13209.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    When federal law requires a foreign translation on the ballot along with the English version, the ballot may be designed so the translation appears next to the voting target.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13209. Whenever a foreign translation of the ballot is required by the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965, as amended by Public Law 94-73, to appear on the ballot as well as the English language version, the ballot may be so designed as to place the foreign translation next to the voting target. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 24. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  162. 13210.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots must print specified headings and voting instructions in prescribed wording, placement, and minimum bold type sizes for different offices and candidate groups.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13210. (a) In the case of candidates for delegate to national convention, there shall be printed in at least 10-point bold type, the words, “President of the United States” and “Vote for one group only.” (b) In the case of candidates for President and Vice President, the words “Vote for One Party” shall appear just below the heading “President and Vice President” and shall be printed so as to appear above the voting targets for that office. The heading “President and Vice President” shall be printed in at least 10-point bold type. (c) In that section of the ballot designated for judicial offices, next to the heading “judicial” shall appear the instruction: “Vote yes or no for each office.” (d) In the case of candidates for Justice of the Supreme Court and court of appeal, within the rectangle provided for each candidate, and immediately above each candidate’s name, there shall appear the following: “For (designation of judicial office).” There shall be as many of these headings as there are candidates for these judicial offices. No heading shall apply to more than one judicial office. Underneath each heading shall appear the words “Shall (title and name of Justice) be elected to the office for the term provided by law?” (e) In the case of all other candidates, each group of candidates to be voted on shall be preceded by the designation of the office for which they are running, and the words “vote for one” or “vote for no more than two,” or more, according to the number to be nominated or elected. The designation of the office and the words “vote for” shall be printed in at least 9-point bold type. The designation of the office and the directions for voting shall be separated from the candidates by a light line. There shall be no line between the headings for federal or legislative offices and the designation of the office and the directions for voting. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 25. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  163. 13211.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Candidate names must be printed on the ballot without indentation and in at least 10-point bold type.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13211. The names of the candidates shall be printed on the ballot, without indentation, in at least 10-point bold type. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 26. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  164. 13211.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballot candidate names must be printed in sequence without unnecessary gaps, spaces may be used to keep contests together or arrange the ballot, and multi-page or multi-card ballots must include a continue-to-next-page-or-card instruction.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13211.5. (a) Each group of names of candidates for a particular office shall be printed in immediate succession to another group of names of candidates for a particular office so as to avoid unnecessary spacing or gaps in the sequence in which each series of groups of names are listed on the ballot. (b) Spaces may be left on the ballot in order to keep an entire contest together in a single column or page, or to manage the arrangement of contests on the ballot. (c) When a ballot has multiple pages or cards, an instruction shall be printed to direct the voter to continue to the next page or card. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 27. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  165. 13211.7.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    In certain jurisdictions that must provide translated ballot materials, ballots with translated candidate names must also include phonetic transliterations, with some exceptions and matching-name rules.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13211.7. (a) (1) In jurisdictions required to provide translated ballot materials pursuant to Section 203 of the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10503), as that section may be amended from time to time, any ballot that provides a translation of a candidate’s name shall contain a phonetic transliteration of the candidate’s name, except as provided in subdivision (b). (2) This section applies only to character-based languages, including, but not limited to, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, Japanese, and Korean. (3) If a candidate’s name is to appear on the ballot in more than one jurisdiction in an election, all of those jurisdictions required to provide translated ballot materials pursuant to Section 203 of the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10503) shall use the same phonetic transliteration or character-based translation of the name. (4) (A) In a jurisdiction in which separate ballots containing translations of the candidates’ names are printed in different languages, both the alphabet-based names and the translations of the candidates’ names, for candidates that have translated names, shall appear on the translated ballot. (B) If a jurisdiction is unable to comply with subparagraph (A) due to limitations of its existing voting system, any new voting system purchased by the jurisdiction after July 1, 2020, shall be able to accommodate the requirements of subparagraph (A). (b) If a candidate has a character-based name by birth, that can be verified by birth certificate or other valid identification, the candidate may use that name on the ballot instead of a phonetic transliteration. A candidate who does not have a character-based name by birth, but who identifies by a particular character-based name and can demonstrate to the local elections official that the candidate has been known and identified within the public sphere by that name over the past two years, may use that name instead of a phonetic transliteration. (Added by Stats. 2019, Ch. 82, Sec. 1. (AB 57) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  166. 13212.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    For most offices, the ballot must print blank spaces under each office name for the candidates to be nominated or elected, except for a voter-nominated office at a general election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13212. Except for a voter-nominated office at a general election, under the designation of each office shall be printed as many blank spaces, defined by light lines, as there are candidates to be nominated or elected to the office. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 28. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  167. 13213.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Candidate names for each office must be separated into groups, with each series headed by a specified caption in at least 10-point bold type.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13213. Each group of names of candidates for a particular office shall be separated from the succeeding group. Each series of groups shall be headed by a caption that reads “President of the United States,” “President and Vice President,” “State,” “United States Senator,” “United States Representative,” “State Senator,” “Member of the State Assembly,” “County,” or “City” or other proper general classification, as the case may be, printed in at least 10-point bold type. Each caption shall be separated from the names of the candidates beneath. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 29. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  168. 13214.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballot columns must be bordered, and ballot packages must be bound or stitched at the top, unless the ballots are used in a ballot-on-demand or similar print-on-ballot system.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13214. All sides of the columns on the ballot shall be bordered. The binding or stitching of each package of ballots shall be along the top or head of the ballot. If ballots are to be used on a ballot on demand system or another system that prints content onto ballots, ballots are not required to be bound or stitched. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 30. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  169. 13215.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots may be printed with a stub no more than one inch deep, and the stub may be separated by a horizontal perforated line or rule; the stub must show only the ballot number. Ballots used in certain printing systems do not need stubs.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13215. (a) The ballots may be printed on the same leaf with a stub not over one inch in depth. The stub may be separated from the ballot by a horizontal perforated line or rule from side to side. Upon this stub shall be printed only the number of the ballot. (b) Stubs are not required on ballots to be used on a ballot on demand system or another system that prints content onto the ballot. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 863, Sec. 18. (AB 623) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  170. 13216.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A ballot stub may be used for a ballot, and ballots may include printed and distinguishing marks if voting secrecy is protected.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13216. A ballot stub may be used for a ballot. The ballots may contain printed and distinguishing marks if secrecy in voting is protected. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 32. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  171. 13217.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots and corresponding stubs must be numbered to match, with consecutive numbering rules that vary by county, district, party, and vote-center counties.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13217. (a) The number on each ballot shall be the same as that on the corresponding stub, and the ballots and stubs shall be numbered consecutively in each county, or the ballots and stubs may be numbered consecutively within each combination of congressional, senatorial, and Assembly districts in each county. In a partisan primary election, the sequence of numbers on the official ballots and stubs for each party within each county, or within each political subdivision in each county, shall begin with the number 1. (b) In counties using vote centers, ballots may be serialized in the way that best promotes ballot accounting and with the greatest economic efficiency for the county. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 863, Sec. 21. (AB 623) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  172. 13218.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The Secretary of State must create a ballot design advisory committee to help write regulations on ballot design and format.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13218. (a) The Secretary of State shall establish a ballot design advisory committee to assist the Secretary of State to promulgate regulations that prescribe ballot design and format. (b) The ballot design advisory committee shall consist of the Secretary of State, or the secretary’s designee, and members to be appointed by the Secretary of State who are recognized ballot design experts and county elections officials or a designee of a county elections official. Each recognized ballot design expert shall have demonstrated experience with ballot design requirements and knowledge of presenting election materials to voters using plain language methods or another method that is easy for voters to access and understand. (Added by Stats. 2019, Ch. 863, Sec. 22. (AB 623) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  173. 13219.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots must be bound in stub books, with the clerk setting the size; if stubs are not used under Section 13216, the county elections official may choose another binding method.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13219. When printed, all ballots shall be bound in stub books, of such size as the clerk may determine. A record of the number of ballots printed shall be kept by the officer authorizing the printing. If stubs are not used pursuant to Section 13216, ballots may be bound by another method determined by the county elections official. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 863, Sec. 23. (AB 623) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  174. 13220.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots must show the term of office when candidates are nominated for different terms, and use “Full Term” and “Short Term” labels in certain general-election vacancies.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 1. General Provisions [13200 - 13220] ( Article 1 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13220. If two or more officers are to be elected for the same office for different terms, the terms for which each candidate for the office is nominated shall be printed on the ballot as a part of the title of the office. If at a general election an office is to be filled for a full term and also for a vacancy in another term, the list of candidates for the full term shall be placed on the ballot under the designation of the office with the words “Full Term” printed immediately after that designation, and the list of candidates to fill the vacancy shall be placed on the ballot under the designation of the office with the words “Short Term” printed immediately after that designation. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  175. 13230.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If the county elections official finds the ballot would be too large to handle conveniently, the official may split partisan and nonpartisan voting onto two ballots and adjust ballot printing and numbering.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13230. (a) If the county elections official determines that, due to the number of candidates and measures that must be printed on the ballot, the ballot will be larger than may be conveniently handled, the county elections official may provide that a nonpartisan ballot shall be given to each partisan voter, together with his or her partisan ballot, and that the material appearing under the heading “Voter-Nominated and Nonpartisan Offices” on partisan ballots, as well as the heading itself, shall be omitted from the partisan ballots. (b) If the county elections official so provides, the procedure prescribed for the handling and canvassing of ballots shall be modified to the extent necessary to permit the use of two ballots by partisan voters. The county elections official may, in this case, order the second ballot to be printed on paper of a different tint, and assign to those ballots numbers higher than those assigned to the ballots containing partisan offices. (c) “Partisan voters,” for purposes of this section, includes both persons who have disclosed a party preference pursuant to Section 2151 or 2152 and persons who have declined to disclose a party preference, but who have chosen to vote the ballot of a political party as authorized by that party’s rules duly noticed to the Secretary of State. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 3, Sec. 41. (AB 1413) Effective February 10, 2012.)
  176. 13231.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A county elections official may change ballot format in precincts when needed for an approved vote-counting method.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13231. If the elections official of any county finds it necessary in connection with the use of any approved method of vote counting, the elections official may provide for any of the following changes in the format of ballots in one or more precincts at any election: (a) Ballots may be bound and padded at the side. (b) The left and right edge of ballots may be trimmed to the edge of printed material. (c) A series of punched holes may be provided in the upper right-hand portion of each ballot. (d) The ballot number may be placed at any place along the top left-hand corner of the ballot. (e) A cutout section, not to exceed two inches in depth, commencing at the left-hand edge of the far right column of the ballot, may be provided along the top edge of the ballot. (f) Press perforations may be placed between columns of the ballot, from top to bottom, to permit the folding of the ballot at each perforation. (g) “Yes” and “No” columns where necessary, may be as narrow as one-quarter inch wide. (h) The instructions to voters may be placed at the bottom of the ballot instead of at the top of the ballot, and an appropriate reference to the location of the instructions may be printed in the upper right portion of the ballot. (i) The ballot serial number may be placed on any position of the ballot that does not impact other required text or voting targets on the ballot card. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 863, Sec. 24. (AB 623) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  177. 13232.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    For the Democratic Party Presidential Primary Election, the Secretary of State may let county elections officials change ballot formatting in limited ways when needed to fit voter system or tabulating device limits.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13232. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for the purpose of conducting the Democratic Party Presidential Primary Election, the Secretary of State may, if it is reasonably necessary to accommodate the limitations of a voter system or vote tabulating device, authorize the county elections officials to do any or all of the following: (a) Vary the order of any office or measure listed in Section 13109, with the exception of President of the United States, United States Representative, State Senator, Member of the Assembly, and judicial offices. (b) Place any office listed in Section 13109 on a second ballot, with the exception of United States Representative, State Senator, Member of the State Assembly, judicial offices, County Superintendent of Schools, County Board of Education Members, and county officers. (c) Place any ballot measure, other than a state measure, on a separate ballot. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  178. 13233.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    In a municipal election, a double-column ballot format may be used if the candidate names for an office will not fit in one column of reasonable length.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Allowable Changes in Ballot Format and Printing [13230 - 13233] ( Article 2 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13233. In a municipal election, if the number of candidates for an office is such that all of the names will not fit in one column of reasonable length, a double column may be used, and all of the following provisions shall apply: (a) The space between the two halves of the double column shall be less than that between the double column and any other columns on the ballot, and the lines separating the columns and the two halves of the double column shall be printed so as to emphasize the fact that the candidates in the double column are running for the same office. (b) The designation of the office and any other words required to be at the top of the contest shall be printed across the top of the entire double column with no dividing line. The words “Vote for one,” “Vote for two,” or more, as the case may be, shall be centered over the entire double column and shall be printed below any other words at the top of the double column. (c) The names of the candidates, including the blank space or spaces necessary to permit the voter to write in the names of persons not printed on the ballot, shall be apportioned as equally as possible between the two columns. The odd space, if any, shall be included in the left-hand column. (d) The double column shall be used for no more than one office and for no more than one term for any office. (e) The order of names and blank spaces in the double column shall be the same as would apply to a single column with the left-hand side of the double column taken first. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 676, Sec. 34. (AB 1219) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  179. 13240.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots to be counted by electronic or electromechanical devices may be sized, composed, textured, and inked to work with those devices.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13240. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, the ballots to be counted by means of electronic or electromechanical devices may be of a size, composition, and texture that, and may be printed in any type of ink or combination of inks that, will be suitable for use in the counting devices in which they are intended to be placed. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  180. 13241.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Candidate names and the offices they seek must be printed on the ballot in parallel columns at least 2 inches wide.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13241. The names of the candidates and the respective offices shall be printed on the ballot in parallel columns at least 2 inches wide. (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 57, Sec. 8. (AB 2835) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  181. 13242.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    If electromechanical vote tabulating devices are used to count all or part of the ballots, presidential candidates’ names may be printed in the same column as candidates for other offices.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13242. Where electromechanical vote tabulating devices are used to count all or part of the ballots, the names of presidential candidates may be printed in the same column as the names of candidates for other offices. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  182. 13243.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballots may include code marks or punched holes for correct placement in counting devices, but they must not be used to reveal voter identity.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13243. The ballots may contain printed code marks or punched holes that may be used for placing the ballots in correct reading position in the counting devices. The code marks or punched holes shall not be used in any way that will reveal the identity of the voters voting the ballots. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  183. 13244.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    The county voter information guide must include a substantial facsimile of the official ballot, together with instructions to voters.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13244. The county voter information guide provided pursuant to Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 13300) shall include a substantial facsimile of the official ballot, including instructions to voters. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 61. (AB 2911) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  184. 13246.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    A ballot-marking device may be any size, shape, or form, and may use a clearly recognizable mark or any ink or substance that clearly shows the voter’s choice.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13246. The device for marking the ballot may be of any size, shape, or form, and the impression made on the ballot may be in the form of a cross, square, circle, rectangle, or any other design that will clearly indicate the choice of the voter. Any type of ink or other substance that will clearly show the voter’s choice may be used in or in conjunction with the marking device. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2.)
  185. 13247.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. )

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    Ballot labels must use specific wording for measures submitted to voters, including different wording for statewide referendum measures.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Vote Tabulating Devices [13240 - 13247] ( Article 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## 13247. The statement of all measures submitted to the voters shall be abbreviated on the ballot in a ballot label as provided for in Section 9051. The ballot label shall be followed by the words, “Yes” and “No”, except for a statewide referendum measure. The ballot label for a statewide referendum measure shall be followed by the words, “Keep the law” and “Overturn the law.” (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 162, Sec. 9. (AB 421) Effective September 8, 2023.)
  186. 13282.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Ballot Labels [13282- 13282.] ( Heading of Article 5 amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 911, Sec. 3. )

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    The Attorney General must file a condensed ballot title and summary with the Secretary of State, who must make it available for public examination before ballot-label printing, with at least 20 days for public review.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Ballot Printing Specifications [13200 - 13282] ( Chapter 3 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Ballot Labels [13282- 13282.] ( Heading of Article 5 amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 911, Sec. 3. ) ## 13282. Whenever the Attorney General prepares a condensed ballot title and summary, the Attorney General shall file a copy of the condensed ballot title and summary with the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall make a copy of the condensed ballot title and summary as required by subdivision (c) of Section 9051 available for public examination prior to the printing of the ballot label on any ballot. The public shall be permitted to examine the condensed ballot title and summary for at least 20 days, and the Secretary of State may consolidate the examination requirement under this section with the public examination requirements set forth in Section 9092. A voter may seek a writ of mandate requiring a condensed ballot title and summary, or portion thereof, to be amended or deleted. The provisions set forth in Section 9092 concerning the issuance of the writ and the nature of the proceedings shall be applicable to this section. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 751, Sec. 8. (AB 1416) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  187. 13300.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    County elections officials must prepare and mail county voter information guides, include ballot facsimiles, and list candidate names. Some voters may request a party ballot on election day if party rules allow it.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13300. (a) By at least 29 days before the partisan primary, each county elections official shall prepare a separate county voter information guide for each political party and a separate nonpartisan county voter information guide. The county elections official shall place in each guide, as applicable, in the order provided in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 13100), and under the appropriate title of each office, the names of all candidates for whom nomination papers have been duly filed with the county elections official or have been certified to the county elections official by the Secretary of State, to be voted for in the county elections official’s county at the partisan primary election. (b) The county voter information guides shall include a substantial facsimile of the official ballots, except as otherwise provided by law. The county voter information guides shall be printed on paper of a different texture from the paper to be used for the official ballot. (c) One county voter information guide of the party for which the voter has disclosed a preference, as evidenced by the voter’s registration, shall be mailed no later than 10 days before the election to each voter entitled to vote at the primary who registered at least 29 days before the election. A nonpartisan county voter information guide shall be so mailed to each voter who is not registered as preferring any of the parties participating in the primary election. On election day the voter may, upon request, vote the ballot of a political party if authorized by the party’s rules, duly noticed to the Secretary of State. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 566, Sec. 2. (SB 151) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  188. 13300.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    The county elections official may prepare a combined county voter information guide.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13300.5. In order to facilitate the timely production and distribution of county voter information guides, the county elections official may prepare a combined county voter information guide. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 65. (AB 2911) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  189. 13300.7.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    County and city elections officials may set up an electronic opt-out system for mailed voter materials if they include notice, re-enrollment, application, identity verification, confidentiality, deadline handling, and accessibility features.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13300.7. Notwithstanding any other law, county and city elections officials may establish procedures designed to permit a voter to opt out of receiving the voter’s county voter information guide, state voter information guide, notice of polling place, and associated materials by mail, and instead obtain them electronically via email or by accessing them on the county’s or city’s internet website, if all of the following conditions are met: (a) The procedures establish a method of providing notice of and an opportunity by which a voter can notify elections officials of the voter’s desire to obtain ballot materials electronically in lieu of receiving them by mail. (b) The voter email address or any other information provided by the voter under this section remains confidential pursuant to Section 7924.000 of the Government Code and Section 2194 of this code. (c) The procedures provide notice and opportunity for a voter who has opted out of receiving a county voter information guide and other materials by mail to opt back into receiving them by mail. (d) The procedures establish a process by which a voter can apply electronically to become a vote by mail voter. (e) A voter may only opt out of, or opt back into, receiving the voter’s county voter information guide and other ballot materials by mail if the elections official receives the request and can process it before the statutory deadline for the mailing of those materials for the next election, pursuant to Section 13303. If a voter misses this deadline, the request shall take effect the following election. (f) The procedures shall include a verification process to confirm the voter’s identity in any of the following manners: (1) In writing with a signature card that can be matched to the one on file with the elections official. (2) Electronically with the electronic transmission containing the voter’s California driver’s license number, California identification number, or a partial social security number. (3) By telephone or in person, upon confirmation of the voter’s date of birth, residence address, and California driver’s license number, California identification number, or a partial social security number. (g) Information made available over the internet pursuant to this section shall meet or exceed the most current, ratified standards under Section 508 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. Sec. 794d), as amended, and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 adopted by the World Wide Web Consortium for accessibility. Election officials may also implement recommendations of the Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee made pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 2053, and of any local Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee created pursuant to the guidelines promulgated by the Secretary of State related to the accessibility of polling places by the physically handicapped. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 28, Sec. 44. (SB 1380) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  190. 13302.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    The county elections official must send and post county voter information guides, and may receive endorsed candidate lists from qualified political parties. If a list is timely submitted, the party chairperson must provide a written copy at least 83 days before the election.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13302. (a) The county elections official shall forthwith submit the county voter information guide of each political party to the chairperson of the county central committee of that party, and shall mail a copy to each candidate for whom nomination papers have been filed in his or her office or whose name has been certified to him or her by the Secretary of State, to the post office address given in the nomination paper or certification. The county elections official shall post a copy of each county voter information guide in a conspicuous place in his or her office. (b) In connection with an election at which a candidate for a voter-nominated office will appear on the ballot, a qualified political party may submit to the county elections official a list of all candidates for voter-nominated office who will appear on a ballot in the county in question, and who have been endorsed by the party by whatever lawful mechanism the party adopts for endorsing candidates for voter-nominated office. If a political party timely submits a list to the county elections official pursuant to this subdivision, the county elections official shall print the names of the candidates for voter-nominated office who were endorsed by that political party in the voter information portion of the county voter information guide. The party chairperson shall provide a written copy of the list of candidates endorsed by the party not later than 83 days before the election at which the candidate for a voter-nominated office will appear on the ballot. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 67. (AB 2911) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  191. 13303.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    Elections officials must print and label county voter information guides, include ballot facsimiles, mail them to eligible registered voters by the deadline, and send polling-place notices with required website and availability information.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13303. (a) For each election, each appropriate elections official shall cause to be printed, on plain white paper or tinted paper, without watermark, at least as many copies of the form of ballot provided for use in each voting precinct as there are voters in the precinct. These copies shall be designated “county voter information guide” upon their face and shall include a substantial facsimile of the official ballots used in the election, except as otherwise provided by law. A county voter information guide shall be mailed, postage prepaid, no later than 21 days before the election to each voter who is registered at least 29 days before the election. (b) The elections official shall send notice of the polling place, which includes vote centers, to each voter with the county voter information guide. Only official matter shall be sent out with the county voter information guide as provided by law. (c) The elections official shall send notice of the polling place, which includes vote centers, to each voter who registered after the 29th day before the election and is eligible to participate in the election. The notice shall also include information as to where the voter can obtain a county voter information guide and a state voter information guide before the election, a statement indicating that those documents will be available at the polling place at the time of the election, and the address of the Secretary of State’s internet website and, if applicable, of the county internet website where a county voter information guide may be viewed. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 566, Sec. 3. (SB 151) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  192. 13304.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    A local elections official may include extra information in the polling place notice, including whether the polling place is accessible to physically handicapped voters and, if applicable, voter rights under Section 14282.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13304. The notice of the polling place which is sent to each voter as provided in Section 13303 may, at the option of the local elections official, inform the voter as to whether the polling place is accessible to the physically handicapped. In addition, this notice may inform the voter of his or her rights under Section 14282, if applicable. (Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 72, Sec. 2. Effective July 19, 2005.)
  193. 13305.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    A county elections official may skip mailing a county voter information guide to a voter if specified conditions are met.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13305. (a) Notwithstanding Sections 13300 and 13303 a county elections official may elect not to mail a county voter information guide to a voter if both of the following are satisfied: (1) The county elections official prepares and mails to each voter a document that includes all of the information required to be included in, and shall be accompanied by all the election materials required to accompany, the county voter information guide. (2) The voter is furnished with an official ballot pursuant to Section 3005 or 3010. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a) of Section 13303, for each voter to whom the elections official elects not to mail a county voter information guide pursuant to subdivision (a), the elections official may cause to be printed one less copy of the county voter information guide. (c) If a county elections official elects not to mail a county voter information guide to a voter pursuant to this section, the elections official shall use any savings achieved to offset the costs associated with establishing a free access system for vote by mail ballots pursuant to Section 3019.5 before the savings may be used for any other purpose. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 161, Sec. 27. (AB 2608) Effective August 22, 2022.)
  194. 13306.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    Late registrants do not have to be mailed certain election materials, and those registered after the 29th day before an election also do not have to be mailed a state voter information guide.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13306. Notwithstanding Sections 13300, 13303, and 13307, county voter information guides and candidates’ statements need not be mailed to voters who registered after the 54th day before an election, but all of these voters shall receive polling place notices and state voter information guides. A state voter information guide is not required to be mailed to a voter who registered after the 29th day before an election. Each of these voters shall receive a notice in bold print that states: “Because you are a late registrant, you are not receiving a county voter information guide or candidates’ statements.” (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 70. (AB 2911) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  195. 13307.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    This section lets certain local candidates prepare a candidate statement, but sets filing, content, translation, formatting, and cost rules for how the statement is handled.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13307. (a) (1) Each candidate for nonpartisan elective office in any local agency, including any city, county, city and county, or district, may prepare a candidate’s statement on an appropriate form provided by the elections official. The statement may include the name, age, and occupation of the candidate and a brief description, of no more than 200 words, of the candidate’s own education and qualifications expressed by the candidate. However, the governing body of the local agency may authorize an increase in the limitations on words for the statement from 200 to 400 words. The statement shall not include the party affiliation of the candidate, nor membership or activity in partisan political organizations. (2) The statement authorized by this subdivision shall be filed in the office of the elections official when the candidate’s nomination papers are returned for filing, if it is for a primary election, or for an election for offices for which there is no primary. The statement shall be filed in the office of the elections official no later than the 88th day before the election, if it is for an election for which nomination papers are not required to be filed. If a runoff election or general election occurs within 88 days of the primary or first election, the statement shall be filed with the elections official by the third day following the governing body’s declaration of the results from the primary or first election. (3) Except as provided in Section 13309, the statement may be withdrawn, but not changed, during the period for filing nomination papers and until 5 p.m. of the next working day after the close of the nomination period. (b) (1) The elections official shall send to each voter a county voter information guide that contains the written statements of each candidate that is prepared pursuant to subdivision (a). The statement of each candidate shall be printed in type of uniform size and darkness, and with uniform spacing. (2) The elections official shall provide a Spanish translation to those candidates who wish to have one, and shall select a person to provide that translation who is one of the following: (A) A certified and registered interpreter on the Judicial Council Master List. (B) An interpreter categorized as “certified” or “professionally qualified” by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. (C) From an institution accredited by a regional or national accrediting agency recognized by the United States Secretary of Education. (D) A current voting member in good standing of the American Translators Association. (E) A current member in good standing of the American Association of Language Specialists. (c) (1) In addition to the statement prepared pursuant to subdivision (a), if the elections official who is conducting the election or the county elections official who is conducting a local agency’s election, including a local election that is consolidated with the county election, permits electronic distribution of a candidate’s statement, each candidate for nonpartisan elective office in the local agency may prepare a candidate’s statement for the purpose of electronic distribution pursuant to this subdivision. (2) A statement prepared pursuant to this subdivision shall be posted on the website of the elections official, and may be included in a voter’s pamphlet that is electronically distributed by the elections official pursuant to Section 13300.7, but shall not be included in a voter’s pamphlet that is printed and mailed to voters pursuant to subdivision (b). (3) A statement that is printed in the voter’s pamphlet and mailed to voters pursuant to subdivision (b) shall be included with the statement that is prepared and electronically distributed pursuant to this subdivision. (4) A statement that is prepared and electronically distributed pursuant to this subdivision shall be displayed in type of uniform size and darkness, and with uniform spacing. (5) The elections official shall provide a Spanish translation to those candidates who wish to have one, and shall select a person to provide that translation who is one of the persons listed in paragraph (2) of subdivision (b). (d) The local agency may estimate the total cost of printing, handling, translating, mailing, and electronically distributing candidate’s statements filed pursuant to this section, including costs incurred as a result of complying with the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965, as amended. The local agency may require each candidate filing a statement to pay in advance to the local agency the candidate’s estimated pro rata share as a condition of having the candidate’s statement included in the county voter information guide or electronically distributed. In the event the estimated payment is required, the receipt for the payment shall include a written notice that the estimate is just an approximation of the actual cost that varies from one election to another election and may be significantly more or less than the estimate, depending on the actual number of candidates filing statements. Accordingly, the local agency is not bound by the estimate and may, on a pro rata basis, bill the candidate for additional actual expense or refund any excess paid depending on the final actual cost. In the event of underpayment, the local agency may require the candidate to pay the balance of the cost incurred. In the event of overpayment, the local agency that, or the elections official who, collected the estimated cost shall prorate the excess amount among the candidates and refund the excess amount paid within 30 days of the election. (e) This section shall not be deemed to make any statement, or the authors of any statement, free or exempt from any civil or criminal action or penalty because of any false, slanderous, or libelous statements offered for printing electronic distribution pursuant to this section or contained in the county voter information guide. (f) Before the nominating period opens, the local agency for that election shall determine whether a charge shall be levied against that candidate for the candidate’s statement sent to each voter and, if authorized pursuant to subdivision (c), for the electronically distributed candidate’s statement. This decision shall not be revoked or modified after the seventh day before the opening of the nominating period. A written statement of the regulations with respect to charges for handling, packaging, mailing, and electronic distribution shall be provided to each candidate or each candidate’s representative, at the time they pick up the nomination papers. (g) For purposes of this section and Section 13310, the board of supervisors is the governing body of judicial elections. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 120, Sec. 2. (AB 3197) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  196. 13307.5.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    A candidate for United States Representative may buy space for a statement in the county voter information guide, but the statement must be no more than 250 words and must not mention any opponent.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13307.5. A candidate for United States Representative may purchase the space to place a statement in the voter information portion of the county voter information guide that does not exceed 250 words. The statement shall not refer to any opponent of the candidate. The statement shall be submitted in accordance with the timeframes and procedures set forth in this code for the preparation of the voter information portion of the county voter information guide. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 72. (AB 2911) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  197. 13307.7.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    An elections official must post the candidate statement form online and accept electronic filing, and a candidate in a multicounty district must send hard copies and the fee by overnight mail within 72 hours after electronic filing.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13307.7. (a) An elections official shall post the form to be used by a candidate to submit a candidate statement pursuant to Section 13307, Section 13307.5, or subdivision (c) of Section 85601 of the Government Code, on the elections official’s internet website, and shall accept the electronic submission of that form if it is submitted in accordance with the times and procedures set forth in this code for the preparation of the voter information portion of the county voter information guide. If the candidate is running in a multicounty district, the elections official of each county shall accept the electronic submission of the form from the candidate’s county of residence; however, the candidate shall transmit a hard copy of the candidate statement form, any accompanying form, and payment of the requisite fee to each county by overnight mail within 72 hours of filing the statement electronically. The elections official shall not require the candidate to submit any additional forms as a means of correcting internet website posting errors made by the elections official. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), an elections official may require a candidate to provide additional information that the official needs to comply with state law and county voter information guide requirements. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 664, Sec. 2. (AB 773) Effective October 10, 2023.)
  198. 13308.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    Candidate statements must be limited to the candidate’s own background and qualifications, and elections officials may not print, post, or circulate statements that go beyond that limit or mention other candidates in prohibited ways.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13308. In addition to the restrictions set forth in Section 13307, any candidate’s statement submitted pursuant to Section 13307 shall be limited to a recitation of the candidate’s own personal background and qualifications, and shall not in any way make reference to other candidates for that office or to another candidate’s qualifications, character, or activities. The elections official shall not cause to be printed, posted on an Internet Web site, or circulated any statement that the elections official determines is not so limited or that includes any reference prohibited by this section. (Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 128, Sec. 2. (AB 2010) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  199. 13309.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    A candidate claiming indigency must file a financial-worth statement, certify it, and sign a tax-return release; the local agency must decide indigency and notify the candidate.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13309. (a) Notwithstanding Section 13307, if a candidate alleges to be indigent and unable to pay in advance the requisite fee for submitting a candidate statement, the candidate shall submit to the local agency a statement of financial worth to be used in determining whether or not he or she is eligible to submit a candidate statement without payment of the fee in advance. (b) The statement of financial worth required by this section shall be submitted by the candidate together with his or her candidate statement in accordance with the deadline specified in Section 13307. The statement of financial worth form shall be furnished by the local agency, and may include questions relating to the candidate’s employer, income, real estate holdings, tangible personal property, and financial obligations. The candidate shall certify the content of the statement as to its truth and correctness under penalty of perjury. The candidate shall also sign a release form of the candidate’s most recent federal income tax report. (c) Upon receipt of a statement of financial worth, a determination shall be made by the local agency of whether or not the candidate is indigent. The local agency shall notify the candidate of its findings. (d) If it is determined that the candidate is not indigent, the candidate shall, within three days of the notification, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays, withdraw the statement or pay the requisite fee. If the candidate fails to respond within the time prescribed, the local agency shall not be obligated to print and mail the statement. (e) If the local agency determines that the candidate is indigent, the local agency shall print and mail the statement. (f) Nothing in this section shall prohibit the local agency from billing the candidate his or her actual pro rata share of the cost after the election. (Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 560, Sec. 11. (AB 1417) Effective January 1, 2014.)
  200. 13310.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. )

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    Before the nomination period, the local agency’s governing body may decide that Section 13307 does not apply to the election, but only if the section becomes operative under a later court ruling.

    ## Elections Code - ELEC ## DIVISION 13. BALLOTS, SAMPLE BALLOTS, AND VOTER PAMPHLETS [13000 - 13600] ( Division 13 enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. ) ## CHAPTER 4. State and County Voter Information Guides [13300 - 13317] ( Heading of Chapter 4 amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 422, Sec. 63. ) ## 13310. Prior to the nomination period for an election, the governing body of the local agency conducting the election may determine that Section 13307 is inapplicable to that election. This section shall become operative only if the United States Supreme Court or the California Supreme Court rules that candidates (other than indigent candidates) may not be required to pay for candidates’ statements authorized pursuant to Section 13307. (Enacted by Stats. 1994, Ch. 920, Sec. 2. Section conditionally operative by its own provisions.)

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