Committee backs bill requiring free polling rooms from political subdivisions

Representative Osborne told the Elections and Ethics Committee that Senate Bill 1286, a request from the Tulsa County Election Board, would require political subdivisions where county election boards hold elections to furnish rooms for polling places at no cost.

Osborne said the measure responds to a concern that a large share of polling places—he cited 85.23%—are located in churches or other private buildings and therefore can be withdrawn on short notice, creating instability for elections in larger counties such as Tulsa and Oklahoma counties.

Committee members asked about the bill’s purpose and scope. Representative Donaldson asked for clarification of the bill’s intent; Osborne replied that the change aims to ensure a place for polling in all areas. The committee took a vote and the chairman declared the bill passed by committee vote.