Adds early voting to the 50 feet buffer prohibitions against politicking during election day voting.

Plain-English Summary

Under current Rhode Island law, there is a rule that prohibits political activity — such as handing out campaign materials, holding signs, or trying to persuade voters — within 50 feet of a polling place on Election Day. This "buffer zone" is meant to give voters a calm, pressure-free space to cast their ballots. However, this protection currently only applies to traditional Election Day voting locations.

This bill would extend that same 50-foot buffer zone rule to early voting locations as well. That means anyone offering early votes — which typically takes place over several days before the official Election Day — would have the same protection from political campaigning or electioneering right outside the door as voters who show up on Election Day itself. Campaign workers, sign holders, and others engaging in political persuasion would be required to stay at least 50 feet away from early voting sites during the early voting period.

The bill would affect voters who choose to cast their ballots early, as well as political campaigns, volunteers, and anyone who engages in activities near voting locations. Early voting has become increasingly common in Rhode Island, so this change could apply to a significant number of voters. The bill has been referred to the House State Government & Elections Committee and is currently being held for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward in the legislative process.