CA SB266

Requires the Secretary of State by December 15, 2029, and every four years thereafter, to determine the number of voting-age residents in each precinct who are members of a language minority group and lack sufficient English skills to vote without assistance, and to publish a list of languages spoken by groups making up 3% or more of voting-age residents

Beginning January 1, 2030, elections officials must provide ballots, ballot identification envelopes, and related notices and instructions in the language of any applicable language minority group that meets the 3% threshold or for which the Secretary of State finds sufficient reason to provide translated materials

Transfers responsibility for translating signature verification notices, instructions, and voter statements from county elections officials to the Secretary of State for all languages required under the Voting Rights Act

Expands the pool of qualified translators for ballots, ballot materials, and candidate statements to include translators with demonstrated experience in official or legal documents who are referred by nonprofit organizations specializing in language access, legal aid, or community advocacy

Requires polling places to post information about available language assistance services, including toll-free voter assistance hotlines, in addition to existing requirements about languages spoken by precinct board members