Substitute for HB235 would let localities pilot "super precincts" and vote centers; Chesterfield outlines savings

Delegate Gardner presented a substitute for House Bill 235 authorizing the State Board of Elections to run a permissive pilot allowing counties or cities to form "super precincts" and operate vote centers for use on election day. The substitute removes prior population and election-type restrictions and requires jurisdictions seeking to participate to submit detailed proposals, including number and boundaries of super precincts, vote-center locations, and operating procedures; participation would require unanimous approval by the state board.

Lynette Clements, chair of the Chesterfield County Electoral Board, testified in favor and said Chesterfield’s experience with satellite early-voting locations suggests the model could benefit voters and registrars. "HB 235 would allow Chesterfield to conduct an election with 20 voting centers instead of 78 precincts," Clements said, and the change could reduce the number of officers of election needed and lower long-term costs, though she acknowledged there would be an upfront investment in equipment.

Members asked about voter access and whether voters would be assigned to particular vote centers. Counsel explained a super precinct is a grouping of existing precincts; within a super precinct, a voter may cast a ballot at any designated vote center. Delegates also questioned whether smaller localities could staff the centers; Chesterfield testified the model allows using more experienced officers and said many jurisdictions believe the approach would be manageable.

No roll-call result for a final subcommittee recommendation on the substitute was recorded in the transcript.

The discussion now moves with the bill’s record indicating additional written comment from Tennessee officials and further local consultations may be forthcoming.