Q: My town is holding a Special School Board Election on 9/17/24. The sample ballot provides a bond proposal question.
The bond proposal question includes the BOE acquiring a new building and undertakings to update existing school buildings and an athletic field. What the bond proposal question does not disclose and what the BOE is planning to do is close 2 existing school buildings, in affect omitting this information on the ballot, and that many voters might not necessarily know when casting their ballot. Is it illegal to omit this pertinent information on a ballot and if so, what can be done about it and who should it be reported to?
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A:
The omission of critical information, such as the closure of school buildings, from a bond proposal question on a ballot may raise concerns, but whether it's illegal depends on local and state election laws. Election laws generally require that ballot measures provide sufficient information for voters to make informed decisions. However, the specific requirements for disclosure can vary. If you feel that the omission misleads voters or deprives them of key details, you may have grounds to challenge the legality of the ballot question.
You should start by reviewing local election laws or consulting with legal experts on election integrity to understand if the omission violates any regulations. Additionally, you could contact the Board of Elections (BOE) or other relevant election authorities to voice your concerns. Engaging with other community members, organizing meetings, or writing letters to the editor might also help raise public awareness about the omitted information.
If you believe there’s a violation, you can report the matter to your state or local election commission or seek advice from a local government accountability organization. This may initiate an investigation or a review of the ballot language before the election occurs.
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