NC Law Mandates Additional Polling Sites in WNC

WNC -- October 29, 2024: WNC Counties: NC Law Mandates Additional Polling Sites in WNC

On October 7, 2024, North Carolina lawmakers implemented a new regulation requiring 13 Western counties. 

The following counties were included, Ashe, Avery,  Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, and Yancey—to establish additional polling sites. This law was designed to increase accessibility for voters across the mountainous, rural areas of Western North Carolina, aiming to address issues such as travel challenges and limited infrastructure, especially following the disruptions caused by Hurricane Helene.

 

The State Board of Elections initially encountered resistance from Henderson County, which refused to comply with the mandate by insisting on opening only one polling location. This move raised concerns among state officials and local advocates about potential voter disenfranchisement, as a single polling site could significantly limit access for voters residing in remote parts of the county. In response to Henderson County's stance, the State Board of Elections adopted a bipartisan resolution empowering local election boards to implement additional measures. These provisions allow counties to modify polling schedules, add absentee ballot drop-off sites, and bring in election officials from neighboring counties to assist in managing the expanded operations​

Carolina Public Press
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This legislative change is part of North Carolina's broader response to address voting barriers, providing counties with the flexibility needed to adapt to unique local challenges, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities affected by recent adverse weather events.

 

WNCTimes