Thomas outlined accessible ballot-marking devices (IVS), expanded curbside voting for long-term disabilities, and a state-funded live translation service available in 250+ languages for poll workers to use upon request.

Committee moves forward proposed bills to improve voting access for individuals in care facilities.

Interim city attorney briefed the council on SB 707, the Brown Act modernization bill, which requires two-way remote public access, language-translation assistance in certain circumstances, dedicated public-meetings web pages, and optional remote meetings for some advisory bodies; staff will draft a disruption policy and review infrastructure ahead of a July 1 effective date for key mandates.

The Senate Elections and Government Affairs Committee heard extensive testimony urging passage of HB 444, the Delaware John Lewis Voting Rights Act, which would create a state mechanism to challenge voting policies that deny or dilute access and expand language assistance; no committee vote was taken.

House bill 9 67 would update the Virginia Voting Rights Act by embedding federal standards, lowering language‑assistance thresholds (from 5%/10,000 to 3%/5,000) and expanding who may bring suit on behalf of affected voters; supporters said it strengthens protections, opponents warned of local translation burdens. The subcommittee reported the bill 6–2.

State budget emphasizes funding for education, transportation, and early childhood initiatives.

House Bill 983 mandates local boards to provide language assistance during elections.

State Board requires local boards to provide language assistance for eligible voters