In March 2020, the CA Secretary of State’s office convened a Working Group of county elections officials, advocates, academic experts and others to make recommendations to change the voting procedures for the November 2020 election in light of the COVID-19 health situation.

Several advocacy organizations that have been participating in the Working Group discussions and others, including: American Civil Liberties Union of California, Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus, California Common Cause, Disability Rights California, The League of Women Voters of California, National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund, and others, shared recommendations to achieve a successful November election with particular attention to meeting the needs of California’s most vulnerable voters.

Overview of Key Recommendations – Updated as of May 22, 2020

Every registered voter in California should receive a vote-by-mail (VBM) ballot.

County elections offices should establish the maximum number of in-person voting locations possible, with a minimum of 1 location for every 10,000 voters starting no later than E-4.

The use of ballot dropboxes should be maximized to expand voting opportunities, preserve voter trust, and limit the number of voters dropping off VBM ballots at in-person locations.

Counties should extend opportunities to the public to comment on and shape November election plans.

Significant resources should be allocated for public education and engagement focused on communities that do not traditionally vote by mail.

Recommendations for CA 2020 Elections

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