IL HB4709

County boards and election commissions may only use public school buildings as polling places if approved by the school board or local school council, rather than having automatic access.

If all other public buildings are exhausted, election authorities must submit a written request to the school board or local school council specifying the building needed, explaining why other buildings are insufficient, and detailing required dates and times.

School boards and local school councils have 60 calendar days to approve or deny polling place requests and must notify the election authority of their decision.

Schools are encouraged to close or hold teacher institutes on election days if they approve use as polling places, and approved schools must ensure accessible facilities and allow election administration.

New law establishes 100-foot campaign-free zones around polling rooms in schools, with areas beyond the zone designated as public forums for electioneering while polls are open.