Nebraska Stands Out as the Only State Requiring Citizens to Help Run Elections
In Nebraska, citizens are not only encouraged to vote on Election Day but also required to help run the elections. The state employs compulsory election duty to recruit precinct poll workers, election office helpers, and ballot deliverers, among other tasks. Failure to comply with a summons could result in criminal charges and a fine of up to $100.
While some residents initially find the mandatory election duty challenging to manage with their busy schedules, many end up developing a newfound appreciation for civic service. The system works similarly to jury duty, with registered voters randomly selected to serve on Election Day. Exemptions are allowed for certain individuals based on age, health issues, or child care responsibilities.
Nebraska’s approach to recruiting election workers has been in place since at least the 1950s and is now being monitored by organizations like Power the Polls. This national initiative aims to recruit a diverse group of poll workers, including younger individuals with tech fluency.
Overall, the mandatory election duty in Nebraska serves as a unique way to ensure the smooth operation of the electoral process and promote civic engagement among its residents. As the upcoming election approaches, the state continues to navigate the challenges of finding sufficient election workers to support a fair and efficient voting process.
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