# Support Our Election Workers Act

This bill creates a federal grant program to help states pay election workers better. Right now, many people who work elections—whether as poll workers, election officials, or behind-the-scenes staff—earn very little money, often working on a temporary or volunteer basis. This bill would give states federal funding specifically to increase the pay for these workers.

Here's how it would work in practice: The federal government would give money to states based on what they say they need to spend on higher election worker pay. Each state would have to submit a plan explaining how they'd use the money to attract and keep good election workers. The plan needs to describe who would get the pay increase, how much it would cost, and how the state would actually carry out the program. Importantly, the bill says states can't exclude workers just because they don't directly interact with voters—so people doing behind-the-scenes work like processing ballots or managing equipment would be eligible too.

The bill doesn't specify exactly how much money would be available, but it authorizes Congress to spend whatever is necessary starting in 2024. Every state would receive at least a minimum amount (half of one percent of the total program funding), even if their costs are lower. States would then have to report back to the federal government on how they spent the money. The bill also includes the Northern Mariana Islands as eligible to receive funding, treating it the same as the states.

The practical effect would be that election workers across the country could potentially earn more money, which supporters argue would help recruit and retain qualified people for these important jobs. However, the actual impact would depend on how much money Congress ultimately appropriates and how individual states choose to use the funds.

Support Our Election Workers Act

Support Our Election Workers Act This bill directs the Election Assistance Commission to establish a program to make payments to states to provide increased pay for election workers, including individuals serving as election officials or poll workers on a temporary or unpaid basis.