The Election Worker and Polling Place Protection Act strengthens federal protections for election workers and voting infrastructure by creating new criminal penalties for those who use force, threats, or violence against election officials, poll workers, poll watchers, or voters. The bill also makes it illegal to damage or threaten to damage polling places, ballot counting centers, or other election infrastructure with intent to disrupt elections. Violations carry fines up to $2,500 and up to six months in prison, with enhanced penalties of up to $5,000 and one year in prison if the offense involves bodily injury, weapons, explosives, or fire. The legislation applies to both government employees and private contractors or vendors working on election administration. Federal prosecution requires certification by the Attorney General that the state lacks jurisdiction, has requested federal involvement, or that federal prosecution is necessary to serve the interests of justice.
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