reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-18 - Elective Meetings › Section 17-18-8. - Town and elective meetings continuously open for voting.

§ 17-18-8. Town and elective meetings continuously open for voting.
All town meetings and elective meetings for the election of general officers, senators and representatives in the general assembly, representatives in congress, and electors of president and vice-president of the United States, shall be opened at a specified hour in the morning and shall be continuously kept open for voting until a specified hour in the afternoon, as provided in §§ 17-18-10 and 17-18-11.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 9, § 14; G.L. 1909, ch. 9, § 14; G.L. 1909, ch. 9, § 9; P.L. 1910, ch. 640, § 3; P.L. 1917, ch. 1519, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 9, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 314, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 17-18-8; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-18 - Elective Meetings › Section 17-18-9. - District meetings open whole day.

§ 17-18-9. District meetings open whole day.
In the election of general officers, representatives in congress, and electors of president and vice-president of the United States, and of city officers of all cities, and in the election of senators and representatives in the general assembly, the town, ward, senatorial and representative district, and voting district meetings of the several cities and towns, shall be kept open for voting during the whole time of voting for the day.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 9, § 14; G.L. 1909, ch. 9, § 14; G.L. 1909, ch. 9, § 5; P.L. 1910, ch. 640, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 9, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 314, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 17-18-9; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1966, ch. 116, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-18 - Elective Meetings › Section 17-18-11. - Time of closing of polls.

§ 17-18-11. Time of closing of polls.
Elective meetings in all cities and towns shall be continuously kept open for voting until 8 p.m.; provided, that any qualified voter who is waiting in line to vote at 8 p.m. shall be entitled to cast his or her vote. When all persons entitled to vote have been afforded a reasonable opportunity to do so, the polls shall be closed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 9, §§ 16, 17, 19, 20; G.L. 1909, ch. 9, §§ 16, 17, 19, 20; G.L. 1909, ch. 9, §§ 9, 11, as enacted by P.L. 1910, ch. 640, § 3; P.L. 1912, ch. 781, § 2; P.L. 1917, ch. 1519, § 1; P.L. 1918, ch. 1625, § 1; P.L. 1921, ch. 2023, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 9, § 11; P.L. 1924, ch. 554, § 1; P.L. 1925, ch. 607, § 1; P.L. 1925, ch. 744, § 6; P.L. 1933, ch. 2064, § 1; P.L. 1934, ch. 2102, § 2; P.L. 1935, ch. 2221, § 1; P.L. 1936, ch. 2288, § 1; P.L. 1936, ch. 2395, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 314, § 11; P.L. 1939, ch. 755, § 1; P.L. 1942, ch. 1210, § 1; P.L. 1944, ch. 1399, § 2; P.L. 1944, ch. 1402, § 1; P.L. 1944, ch. 1413, § 2; P.L. 1946, ch. 1707, § 1; P.L. 1950, ch. 2445, § 1; P.L. 1950, ch. 2480, § 1; P.L. 1950, ch. 2489, § 1; P.L. 1950, ch. 2526, § 1; P.L. 1951, ch. 2770, § 1; P.L. 1955, ch. 3445, § 2; P.L. 1955, ch. 3468, § 1; P.L. 1955, ch. 3578, § 1; P.L. 1956, ch. 3774, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-18-11; R.P.L. 1957, ch. 22, § 2; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1959, ch. 6, § 1; P.L. 1960, ch. 82, § 1; P.L. 1961, ch. 131, § 2; P.L. 1961, ch. 154, § 1; P.L. 1961, ch. 179, § 2; P.L. 1964, ch. 2, § 1; P.L. 1964, ch. 100, § 1; P.L. 1964, ch. 119, § 1; P.L. 1964, ch. 142, § 1; P.L. 1964, ch. 5, § 2; P.L. 1966, ch. 116, § 14; P.L. 1997, ch. 201, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 316, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 191, § 1; P.L. 2011, ch. 205, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 48, § 1; P.L. 2013, ch. 62, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-18 - Elective Meetings › Section 17-18-12. - Adjournment of ward and district meetings.

§ 17-18-12. Adjournment of ward and district meetings.
In cities other than the city of Providence, and in towns divided into voting districts, ward and district meetings held in those cities and towns, respectively, for the election of city, town, ward, and voting district officers, or any of them, shall, at the time of the closing the polls prescribed by law, stand adjourned to the seventh (7th) day next from and after the appointed day unless the seventh (7th) day falls on a legal or religious holiday, and in that event to the day following the holiday, with like adjournment from the holiday; provided, that there shall be no election held on Saturday, and if the day of any adjournment falls on Saturday, the meeting shall stand adjourned to the Monday following, unless that Monday is a legal or religious holiday, in which case the adjourned election shall proceed on the next following day which is not a legal or religious holiday.
History of Section.
P.L. 1901, ch. 829, § 17; G.L. 1909, ch. 10, § 16; G.L. 1923, ch. 10, § 16; G.L. 1938, ch. 315, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-18-12; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1966, ch. 116, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-18 - Elective Meetings › Section 17-18-13. - Reopening of town elective meetings — Certificates.

§ 17-18-13. Reopening of town elective meetings — Certificates.
If, in any case in a town not divided into voting districts, there is no election of the town officers voted for who are required to be elected by the people, or of any of them, the polls may be reopened and proceedings shall be had until an election takes place. In those towns, after the declaration of the result of the voting for town officers, the town clerks shall give certificates of their election to the persons elected town officers.
History of Section.
P.L. 1901, ch. 829, § 18; G.L. 1909, ch. 10, § 17; G.L. 1923, ch. 10, § 17; G.L. 1938, ch. 315, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 17-18-13; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-18 - Elective Meetings › Section 17-18-14. - Application to elections conducted on optical scan precinct count voting system.

§ 17-18-14. Application to elections conducted on optical scan precinct count voting system.
The provisions of this chapter shall govern elective meetings held in accordance with the provisions of chapter 19 of this title, provided they are applicable and not inconsistent with the provisions of chapter 19.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 9, § 22; G.L. 1909, ch. 9, § 22; G.L. 1896, ch. 9, § 12; P.L. 1901, ch. 640, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 9, § 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 314, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 17-18-14; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 11; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-18 - Elective Meetings › Section 17-18-15. - Closing of schools.

§ 17-18-15. Closing of schools.
At each general election as defined in § 17-1-2(2), at each statewide primary as defined in § 17-15-1, and at each primary for election of delegates to national conventions and for presidential preference as defined in chapter 12.1 of this title, all public elementary and secondary schools throughout the state shall not be in session. On the day of the general election, the statewide primary, and the presidential preference primary, the use of school buildings or premises shall be restricted to use only as polling places for election purposes. Notwithstanding the previous provisions, school staff development days may be held. Provided further, that the provisions of this section shall not be applicable to the Block Island School, located in the town of New Shoreham, and the use of the Block Island School shall not be restricted, nor shall classes need to be cancelled or postponed at said school, on the day of general elections, statewide primaries, and presidential preference primaries.
History of Section.
P.L. 2001, ch. 271, § 1; P.L. 2006, ch. 187, § 3; P.L. 2006, ch. 352, § 3; P.L. 2008, ch. 283, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 363, § 1; P.L. 2023, ch. 11, § 1, effective May 1, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 12, § 1, effective May 1, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-1. - Definitions.

§ 17-19-1. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, except as otherwise required by the context:
(1)
“Candidate” means any individual who has qualified under law to have his or her name appear on the ballot for nomination for election or election to office;
(2)
“Computer ballot” means the paper ballot prepared by the office of the secretary of state for use in conjunction with the optical-scan precinct-count system or the voting equipment precinct-count system then in place and procured in accordance with this chapter;
(3)
“Public office” means any state, municipal, school, or district office or other position that is filled by popular election, except political party offices which shall mean any state, city, town, ward, or representative or senatorial district committee office of a political party or delegate to a political party convention, or any similar office;
(4)
A “Vote” shall be any mark made with the appropriate marking device within the ballot voting area between the head and tail of the arrow or in the oval as indicated on the computer ballot next to the candidate, write-in candidate, or question, as is applicable, for whom the voter casts his or her ballot, except as provided in § 17-20-24;
(5)
“Voting equipment” means an optical-scan precinct-count voting system or the voting equipment precinct-count system then in place and procured in accordance with this chapter, related memory device, all related hardware and software, accessible voting systems required by federal law, and voting booths;
(6)
“Warden” includes moderator and vice versa; and
(7)
“Write-in candidate” means any individual receiving votes or seeking election to office by virtue of having irregular ballots cast for him or her pursuant to § 17-19-31.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 2; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1947, ch. 1886, §§ 36, 39; P.L. 1948, ch. 2151, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-1; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 2004, ch. 264, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 295, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 472, § 1; P.L. 2004, ch. 483, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 176, § 3; P.L. 2015, ch. 201, § 3; P.L. 2016, ch. 174, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-2. - Voting equipment.

§ 17-19-2. Voting equipment.
Subject to the provisions of this chapter, voting equipment that has been procured by the department of administration according to the provisions of this chapter shall be used in all state, city, or town elections, including elections at which amendments to the constitution of the state are submitted to the electors for approval. Until such voting equipment is procured by the department of administration pursuant to the specifications provided by the office of the secretary of state, voting equipment previously acquired by the department of administration according to the provisions of this chapter in effect at that time shall continue to be used in all state, city, or town elections, including elections at which amendments to the constitution of the state are submitted to the electors for approval.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, §§ 1, 24; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, §§ 1, 23; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1947, ch. 1886, §§ 36, 39; P.L. 1956, ch. 3755, § 1; G.L. 1956, §§ 17-19-2, 17-19-3; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-2; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 2015, ch. 176, § 3; P.L. 2015, ch. 201, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-2.1. - New voting technology.

§ 17-19-2.1. New voting technology.
In the event the department of administration purchases new voting equipment and services in accordance with § 17-19-3, then any reference in title 17 to optical-scan equipment shall be deemed to refer to the voting equipment then purchased, whether such voting equipment utilizes optical-scan technology or not.
History of Section.
P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 2; P.L. 2015, ch. 176, § 3; P.L. 2015, ch. 201, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-3.1. - Repealed.

§ 17-19-3.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 51, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 39; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 39. The repeal by chapter 83 is effective June 23, 1999, and the repeal by chapter 130 is effective June 28, 1999. For present comparable provisions, see § 17-19-3.2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-3.2. - Polling place accessibility for voters who are disabled or elderly.

§ 17-19-3.2. Polling place accessibility for voters who are disabled or elderly.
(a)
Every polling place shall be situated in a building that can be entered and exited by persons who are disabled or elderly.
(b)
“Persons who are disabled” for the purpose of this section means a serious impairment of mobility.
(c)
“Elderly” as used in this section means a person who is sixty-five (65) years of age or older.
(d)
The state board of elections shall establish guidelines as to the accessibility of buildings to voters who are disabled or elderly. The state board of elections is empowered to grant, upon the application of the board of canvassers, an exception permitting it to maintain a polling place in a nonconforming building. An exception shall only be granted when the board of canvassers demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the board of elections, that there is no public building within the voting district which meets the requirements of this section or which can be brought into compliance by a reasonable expenditure of funds. If a conforming building is unavailable within the voting district, the board of elections shall provide to the board of canvassers an alternative method or an alternative location outside the voting district for persons who are disabled or elderly and request in advance of the election an alternative means of casting their ballot on election day.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 369, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 101, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 40; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 40.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-3.3. - Telephones at polling places.

§ 17-19-3.3. Telephones at polling places.
Every polling place shall have a telephone available for the use of any election official for the purpose of carrying out his or her official functions and duties.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 177, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-3.4. - Repealed.

§ 17-19-3.4. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 129, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2001, ch. 86, § 63, effective July 6, 2001.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-3.5 - — 17-19-3.15. Repealed.

§ 17-19-3.5 — 17-19-3.15. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 129; § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 9, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 25. § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 28, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 34, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 35, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2000, ch. 109, § 75, effective July 7, 2000.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-4. - Voting booths and optical scan precinct count units — Number to be furnished.

§ 17-19-4. Voting booths and optical scan precinct count units — Number to be furnished.
(a)
For each voting district and for each town not divided into voting districts, at least one precinct count unit shall be prepared and delivered by the state board or its designee.
(b)
At each voting place, both in cities and in towns, at least one voting booth shall be furnished for every one hundred seventy-five (175) qualified electors, whose names are upon the voting list used at the voting place and entitled to use the machines, as certified to the state board based on the voting list certified as a result of the final canvass.
(c)
In making the calculation required by this section, voters whose names are on the inactive list of voters shall not be included.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 5; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 4; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; P.L. 1953, ch. 3203, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-5; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-4; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 171, § 8; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 2017, ch. 104, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 113, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-4.1. - Repealed.

§ 17-19-4.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 20, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 171, § 8; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 17; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 17, effective January 1, 1997.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-4.2. - Moderator request — Computerized voting machines.

§ 17-19-4.2. Moderator request — Computerized voting machines.
(a)
Upon request of a moderator charged with conducting a municipal or regional school district financial meeting, the board of elections will furnish each meeting to be conducted with one computerized voting machine per year, and voting booths and ballots marked “yes” and “no” at the state’s expense. The request shall declare the number of requested ballots and the number of anticipated voters. The request shall be delivered to the board of elections no later than fifteen (15) days prior to the meeting. The board of elections shall determine the need for additional computerized machines and that cost shall be borne by the municipality or school district.
(b)
If a municipality or school district holds more than one financial meeting in the same calendar year, the municipality or school district shall bear the cost of any computerized machines, voting booths, and ballots furnished for use at any additional financial meetings.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 432, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-5. - Printing and furnishing of computer ballots.

§ 17-19-5. Printing and furnishing of computer ballots.
The computer ballots to be used at any election shall be printed and furnished at the expense of the state by the secretary of state and turned over to the state board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 11; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; P.L. 1953, ch. 3203, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-8; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-5; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-6. - Ballot — Arrangement.

§ 17-19-6. Ballot — Arrangement.
In all cases where optical scan precinct count units are to be used for any election, the secretary of state shall prepare a diagram of the computer ballot to be used at the election. The diagram shall determine the manner and order in which the ballot shall be arranged, and the diagram shall, on the day of any election, be in the possession of the warden and available for public inspection. The diagram shall be a copy of the actual computer ballot to be voted at the polling place.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 10; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 5; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1947, ch. 1886, §§ 36, 39; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-6; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-6.1. - Local questions on the ballot.

§ 17-19-6.1. Local questions on the ballot.
In all circumstances where local questions are to be printed on the ballot, they shall be printed on a distinctive colored background. The first question shall be designated by the numeral I, and additional questions shall follow numbered so that all questions submitted to the electors of the city/town shall be numbered consecutively; provided, that whenever there are propositions of amendment of the Constitution or any public question of statewide impact on the ballot, the statewide questions shall be listed on the ballot numbered consecutively starting with the numeral I, and the local questions shall follow starting with the first available number and shall be numbered consecutively.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 236, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-7. - Local candidates and questions — Certification — Ballots.

§ 17-19-7. Local candidates and questions — Certification — Ballots.
The local board of each city or town shall certify to the secretary of state, not later than four o’clock (4:00) p.m. of the third (3rd) day following the last day for the holding of the primary held pursuant to the provisions of chapter 15 of this title, preceding any regular city or town election to be held on the Tuesday next after the first Monday in November in any year, or not later than twenty-nine (29) days before any regular city or town election held at any time other than on the Tuesday next after the first Monday in November in any year, or not later than twenty-nine (29) days before any special city or town election, the offices to be voted for at the election, the names of the candidates for each office and the party name under which the respective candidates were nominated, and any other information necessary to enable the secretary of state to prepare ballots uniform in size, type, color, and appearance with those prepared by the secretary for the state election, and in like manner the local board shall certify to the secretary of state, not later than four o’clock (4:00) p.m. on the ninetieth (90th) day preceding any regular city or town election to be held on the Tuesday next after the first Monday in November in any year, or not later than fifty (50) days before any regular city or town election held at any time other than on the Tuesday next after the first Monday in November in any year, or not later than fifty (50) days before any special city or town election, a copy of each question to be submitted to the electors of the city or town so that suitable ballots may be prepared and furnished for the election.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 11; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; P.L. 1953, ch. 3203, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-7; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 194, § 4; P.L. 1991, ch. 277, § 4; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 1999, ch. 343, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 359, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-7.1. - Listing of at-large candidates.

§ 17-19-7.1. Listing of at-large candidates.
(a)
In case of a vote for members of the council or school committee of any city or town, in which the office or offices to be filled are to be elected on an at-large basis, and whether the election is a partisan, nonpartisan, primary, general, or special election, the names for the office or offices shall be listed on the ballot in such fashion that no more than one name for an office shall be displayed on the same horizontal line; provided, that candidates for nonpartisan election in the cities of Newport, Pawtucket, and Woonsocket, and candidates for partisan election in the town of North Providence, may be listed on the same horizontal line.
(b)
In no event shall the voting equipment be prepared to prevent further voting for an office or officer until the elector has cast as many votes as there are separate offices to be filled.
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 252, § 2; P.L. 1979, ch. 301, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 111, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 333, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-7.2. - Names of candidates.

§ 17-19-7.2. Names of candidates.
In all elections, the names of candidates shall be printed on ballots as they appear on the voting list, notwithstanding that the candidate may have signed his or her declaration of candidacy other than as the candidate’s name appears on the voting list.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 389, § 3; P.L. 1990, 285, § 2; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-8. - Ballots — Form.

§ 17-19-8. Ballots — Form.
All ballots provided under this chapter shall be printed in black ink on clear, white material in plain, clear type. Upon the ballot for questions, the statement of the question may be abbreviated to meet the requirements of the space provided, and shall be printed in type that can be easily read, with the words “yes” or “no” or “approved” and “reject”, whichever may be required for the voter to indicate the voter’s vote for or against any question.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 11; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; P.L. 1953, ch. 3203, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-9; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-8; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-8.2. - State-of-the-art voting technology.

§ 17-19-8.2. State-of-the-art voting technology.
The office of the secretary of state when implementing the provisions of § 17-19-3 shall specify to the extent reasonably available state-of-the-art voting equipment that can accommodate voters who are blind, visually impaired, or are otherwise disabled, in order to afford all voters, regardless of abilities, an opportunity to cast their ballot privately and independently.
History of Section.
P.L. 2002, ch. 177, § 1; P.L. 2002, ch. 200, § 1; P.L. 2015, ch. 176, § 3; P.L. 2015, ch. 201, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-9. - Party emblems.

§ 17-19-9. Party emblems.
The emblem of the democratic party shall be the representation of a star. The emblem of the republican party shall be the representation of an eagle. The emblem of any political organization qualifying as a “political party,” as defined in this title, shall be selected by the state chairperson of the party; provided, that the emblem shall be entirely different for each political party and may be any appropriate symbol, but neither the coat of arms, or seal of any state or of the United States, the national or state flag, any religious emblem or symbol, the seal of any society, the portrait or likeness of any person, or the representation of a coin or of the currency of the United States, shall be chosen as an emblem. Whenever any emblem has been selected and used upon official ballots for any political party, it shall not thereafter be used for any other political party.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; P.L. 1948, ch. 2151, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-10; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-9; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 2014, ch. 279, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 280, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-9.1. - Ballot arrangement — Independent candidates.

§ 17-19-9.1. Ballot arrangement — Independent candidates.
In all state elections at which candidates for public office are to be elected, some of whom are candidates of a political party and some of whom are independent candidates as defined in § 17-1-2(4), all independent candidates for the same public office shall be listed on the ballot, in the vertical column below the title of the office they seek, following the listing of the political party candidates for the office and in an order chosen by lottery; provided, that any independent candidate shall be entitled to have appear on the ballot, in small print to the right his or her name, the name of any political principle, movement, or organization with which the candidate wishes to be identified. The name of the political principle, movement, or organization must be identified on the declaration of candidacy, must contain not more than three (3) words, and must not include, in whole or in part, the name of any political party. If any declaration of candidacy does not contain the name of any political principle, movement, or organization, the word “independent” will appear in small print to the right the name of the candidate on the ballot. Except as provided in this section, the powers and duties of the secretary of state with respect to the preparation of the ballots shall not be affected.
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 342, § 3; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-10. - Sample ballots — Contents — Distribution.

§ 17-19-10. Sample ballots — Contents — Distribution.
The secretary of state shall prepare a sample ballot that shall be a copy of the computer ballot to be used. The sample ballot shall clearly and briefly explain and illustrate the manner of casting a vote, of voting for candidates individually, and of voting upon questions. The secretary of state shall furnish a reasonable supply of sample ballots to the state board of elections, for public distribution upon request, and no fewer than three (3) of the sample ballots shall be furnished for each voting place.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 11; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; P.L. 1953, ch. 3203, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-11; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-10; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 2014, ch. 279, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 280, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-10.1. - Training and community outreach.

§ 17-19-10.1. Training and community outreach.
In furtherance of the termination of the option of straight-party voting by means of a single mark in non-primary elections, the secretary of state shall, no later than thirty (30) days after the effective date of this section, conduct appropriate training and consultations with the state board of elections and local boards of canvassers as he or she may deem necessary in order for the proper administration of voting in the absence of the option of straight-party voting by means of a single mark. The secretary of state shall also conduct community outreach programs throughout the state, including, without limitation, the distribution of applicable materials to state and local libraries, in order to educate the public, including the elderly, with respect to the foregoing.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 279, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 280, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-11. - Election return forms — Contents.

§ 17-19-11. Election return forms — Contents.
(a)
The state board shall prepare and furnish, for each voting place at which machines are to be used, suitable forms on which the following information may be recorded for each machine in use:
(1)
The optical scan precinct count unit number;
(2)
The numbers of any serial seal or seals;
(3)
The voting place at which the optical scan precinct count unit is used;
(4)
The date of the election or primary at which the optical scan precinct count unit is used;
(5)
The number of names checked upon the voting list used at the election; and
(6)
The number of voters registered by the optical scan precinct count unit.
(b)
Space shall be left on the form in which the number of votes given for any person not a candidate at the election, and for what office, may be recorded. Spaces shall also be left for the signatures of the election inspector, the warden, clerk, and at least two (2) supervisors. The state board shall also furnish the necessary envelopes and adhesive labels required to be used in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(c)
Tapes printed from the optical scan precinct count unit indicating the number of votes registered by the unit for each candidate, and for what office, shall be attached to the election return form; tapes printed from the optical scan precinct count unit indicating the number of votes registered by the unit for and against each submitted question shall be attached to the election return form.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 11; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1947, ch. 1886, §§ 36, 39; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-12; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-11; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-12. - Delivery of election supplies.

§ 17-19-12. Delivery of election supplies.
All printed matter, stationery, and supplies required to be furnished by this chapter shall be delivered to or picked up by the proper officer as determined by the state board not later than 12:00 p.m. the day before the election for which they are to be used. Computer ballots to be used at each polling place, ballot transfer cases, marking pens, secrecy sleeves, and any other items related to the voting equipment shall be packaged by the state board and shall be delivered to or picked up by the proper officer as determined by the state board.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 11; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 6; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-13; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-12; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 2017, ch. 5, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 23, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-13. - Exhibition of machines for instructional purposes.

§ 17-19-13. Exhibition of machines for instructional purposes.
The local board may designate suitable and adequate times and places where optical scan voting equipment and sample ballots showing titles of offices to be filled and, so far as practicable, the names of candidates to be voted for at the next election shall be exhibited for the purpose of giving instructions as to the manner of casting a vote to all voters who apply. No optical scan precinct count unit that is to be used in an election shall be used for the instruction after it has been prepared and sealed for the election.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 7; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-14; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-13; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 6, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 24, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-14. - Preparation of voting equipment for election — Testing.

§ 17-19-14. Preparation of voting equipment for election — Testing.
(a)
Prior to any election at which optical scan precinct count voting units are to be used, including those that are accessible for voters who are blind, visually impaired, or disabled, the secretary of state shall prepare the layout and format of the computer ballot in conjunction with the voting equipment vendor under contract with the state. The secretary of state shall be responsible for the coding and layout of all computer ballots to be used in each election under contract, including the printing of the ballot and the preparation of the device to ensure that the ballots are displayed correctly on the accessible voting units and compatible with the device, and shall transfer all information relative to the ballot and its preparation to the state board.
(b)
Subsequently, the state board, in conjunction with the voter equipment vendor under contract with the state, shall be responsible for the testing of the programmed memory cartridge, the testing of each unit for logic and accuracy, including ensuring the accessible voting unit is properly calibrated and correctly coded, and the set up of each optical scan precinct unit at each polling place. The state board of elections shall determine, and document on the forms provided for that purpose, the fact that the programmed memory device cartridges for the optical scan precinct count and accessible voting units are in good working order, that the daily counter is at zero, and all of the candidates’ counters are set at zero and record no vote for any candidate.
(c)
The state board of elections, in conjunction with the voting equipment vendor under contract with the state, shall publicly conduct these tests on each programmed cartridge for each optical scan precinct count and accessible voting unit to be used for the election. This testing shall be made as near to the time of the election as is feasible.
(d)
The state board of elections, in consultation with the secretary of state, shall promulgate rules and regulations on logic and accuracy testing protocols, pursuant to chapter 35 of title 42 (“administrative procedures”).
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 14; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 9; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1947, ch. 1886, §§ 36, 39; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-16; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-14; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 175, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 287, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; P.L. 2023, ch. 140, § 2, effective June 20, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 141, § 2, effective June 20, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-15. - Repealed.

§ 17-19-15. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 9; P.L. 1948, ch. 2151, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-17; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-15; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12; Repealed by P.L. 2014, ch. 279, § 3, effective January 1, 2015; P.L. 2014, ch. 280, § 3, effective January 1, 2015.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-16. - State election inspectors — Appointment — Duties — Training — Compensation.

§ 17-19-16. State election inspectors — Appointment — Duties — Training — Compensation.
The state board may appoint and issue commissions to qualified electors of this state to be election inspectors assigned to some or all election polling places. On the day before any election, the state board may assign an election inspector to one or more polling place as the state board may determine. Each election inspector shall receive a sum, not exceeding sixty dollars ($60.00), to be fixed by the state board for each election at which the inspector serves. Each election inspector shall hold office at the pleasure of the state board, and shall observe the conduct of the elections at which the inspector is assigned to serve, and immediately report to the state board any irregularities the inspector may observe. The state inspectors shall also perform any other and further duties that may be assigned to the inspectors by the state board, and may be required to attend a training session conducted by the state board, for attendance at which the inspector shall be entitled to receive an additional twenty-five dollars ($25.00); provided, that the inspector is assigned to the performance of duties on election day and actually performs those duties.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 8; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; P.L. 1942, ch. 1244, § 1; P.L. 1953, ch. 3203, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-15; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-16; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1962, ch. 201, § 3; P.L. 1980, ch. 289, § 1; P.L. 1994, ch. 171, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-17. - Custody of optical scan precinct count units and voting booths — Duties of local boards — Posting of sample ballots.

§ 17-19-17. Custody of optical scan precinct count units and voting booths — Duties of local boards — Posting of sample ballots.
Each local board shall be responsible for safeguarding the optical scan precinct count units and voting booths delivered to it, and shall properly and safely locate the optical scan precinct count units in the polling places where they are to be used. The local board shall also be responsible for the storage of all voting booths assigned to them, and shall cause the voting booths to be delivered and picked up at the polling places in which they are to be used. The local board shall cause the keys of the voting equipment to be delivered to the warden of the elective meeting at which optical scan precinct count units are to be used at least half an hour before the opening of the polls. The key or keys of each optical scan precinct count unit shall be placed in a sealed envelope upon which shall be written or printed the number and location of the optical scan precinct count unit, and any other information or certification required pursuant to regulations promulgated by the state board of elections. The envelope shall be opened by the warden in the presence of the other election officers. The custody of the voting equipment shall remain with the local board up to the time of the delivery of the keys to the warden, and the local board shall be held fully responsible for any damage or injury to any voting equipment while it is in its custody, and for the failure to have voting equipment ready for use at the time of the opening of the polls. The local board shall cause the sample ballots to be posted in a conspicuous place in each polling place, outside the guard rail.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 14; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 9; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1947, ch. 1886, §§ 36, 39; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-19; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-17; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-18. - Examination of voting equipment prior to opening of polls.

§ 17-19-18. Examination of voting equipment prior to opening of polls.
The warden shall, in company with the clerk and supervisors, before the opening of the polls, unlock each compartment of the optical scan precinct count unit to assure that no computer ballots are contained in any compartment. The warden shall also examine the computer ballot and compare it with the sample ballot. The warden shall determine, as far as he or she may do so without operating the optical scan precinct count unit, that the unit is in good order and ready for the use of the voters. He or she shall then close and lock each compartment of the optical scan precinct count unit. The warden shall open the polling place by following the instructions provided with the optical scan precinct count unit and carefully examine each vote total on the printed tape obtained from the optical scan precinct count unit and determine that no vote is registered on the tape for any candidate or question. The warden shall then declare the polls open.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 15; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 11; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-21; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-18; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-19. - Custody of machines during voting.

§ 17-19-19. Custody of machines during voting.
During the time that the polls are open, and until the optical scan precinct count unit and voted computer ballots are finally locked and sealed and the removable keys thereof sealed up for transmission to the state board as provided in this chapter, the optical scan precinct count units, memory cartridges, and voted computer ballots shall remain in the care and custody of the warden, who shall see that the voting equipment is not defaced or injured by any voter or any other person. During the entire time in which the polls are open for voting, the ballot compartments shall be kept closed and locked; provided, that the emergency bin compartment slot shall be opened as provided in § 17-19-20. The vote totals are not to be printed under any circumstances during the time the polls are open for voting.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 15; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 11; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-22; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-19; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 17 - Elections › Chapter 17-19 - Conduct of Election and Voting Equipment, and Supplies › Section 17-19-20. - Repair or replacement of defective machines.

§ 17-19-20. Repair or replacement of defective machines.
If an optical scan precinct count unit becomes out of order, the warden shall notify the voting equipment technician assigned to respond to those calls. While repairing or otherwise attending to the repair of any voting machine equipment, the voting equipment technician shall display, in a visible manner and on his or her clothing, an identification furnished by the state board of elections, and which shall include, whenever possible, a photograph of the voting equipment technician. In the event that repairs are made to the voting equipment, the voting equipment technician shall make the repairs in the presence of a bi-partisan pair of election officials, and the technician shall note on the official document provided the nature and extent of the repairs made by the technician, the number of the optical scan precinct count unit, the time required to make the repairs, and the probable cause of the failure to operate properly. If any optical scan precinct count unit cannot be repaired by the technician within a period of thirty (30) minutes, the technician and the board shall at once substitute another optical scan precinct count unit for the out of order unit, and at the close of the polls the records of both units shall be taken. During the time in which the optical scan precinct count unit is not accepting ballots, the warden shall, in the presence of the clerk, unlock the emergency bin compartment of the optical scan unit and shall direct voters to place their voted ballots into that compartment. Upon the repair of the unit, the warden, in the presence of the clerk, shall remove the ballots, deposit them in the appropriate ballot slot for counting by the unit, and shall then close and lock the emergency compartment slot.
History of Section.
P.L. 1935, ch. 2195, § 15; P.L. 1938, ch. 2640, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 318, § 11; P.L. 1940, ch. 818, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-23; G.L. 1956, § 17-19-20; P.L. 1958, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 388, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 277, § 12; P.L. 1996, ch. 298, § 12.