# Plain Language Summary of the RACE Act

This bill sets strict new deadlines for how quickly states must count votes and announce election results for federal elections (like presidential, Senate, and House races). Specifically, states would have to finish counting all ballots by 10 p.m. on election night, and they'd have to officially certify their final results within 48 hours after the election. Right now, states have much more flexibility—some take weeks to count votes and certify results, especially when dealing with mail-in ballots or close races that require recounts.

The bill does include some built-in flexibility for genuine emergencies. States wouldn't have to meet these tight deadlines if they're dealing with a major disaster (like a hurricane or earthquake) or serious technical problems with voting equipment or software. However, these exceptions are meant to be narrow—everyday challenges like high voter turnout or staffing shortages wouldn't qualify as reasons to miss the deadline.

The practical effect would be significant pressure on election officials to work much faster. This could mean hiring more staff, investing in faster counting equipment, or changing how they handle mail-in ballots. Some states might struggle to meet the 10 p.m. deadline on election night, especially in areas with large populations or high numbers of mail-in voters. The 48-hour certification deadline is tighter than current practice in many states, which could create challenges if there are close races requiring recounts or if there are disputes about ballot validity that need investigation.

RACE Act

Pfluger, August

Restoring American Confidence in Elections Act or the RACE ActThis bill establishes deadlines for states to count ballots and certify results in federal elections.&nbsp;Specifically, the bill requires a state to finish counting the ballots cast in a federal election held in the state not later than 10:00 p.m. on the date of the election. Further, the state must certify the election results not later than 48 hours after the election.&nbsp;The bill provides exceptions to these deadlines for bona fide emergencies (e.g., major disasters) or technical difficulties (e.g., malfunctioning election equipment or software).