COVID-19 has caused so many changes in America. It's safe to say that simple thing like going to school, meeting new people, or even voting won't be the same for years to come. I never thought about how much cleaning will need to be done to keep voters safe at the polls. Not only making sure the areas are cleaned after people leave the polls, but having hand sanitizer or wipes available at the polls are also needed. Counties in Alabama are able to be reimbursed for those expenses related to COVID-19. the deadline for counties to apply for reimbursement is approaching and the last day to apply is Friday. Alabama's Secretary of State John H. Merrill sent out an official press release reminding counties of the upcoming deadline.

Press Release

Wednesday, June 10, 2020 – MONTGOMERY – Following a $400 million congressional appropriation to protect the 2020 Election Cycle, Secretary of State John H. Merrill reminds Alabama counties that the deadline to apply for COVID-19 related election expense reimbursement is Friday, June 12.

“Over the course of the last two and a half months, we have encouraged Alabama counties to apply for reimbursement for various preparation and election expenses to keep polling places safe and sanitary,” stated Secretary Merrill. “The purchasing of personal protective equipment, sanitation supplies, and other necessary cleaning services will ensure the electoral process continues in a safe and healthy manner.”

The application, which can be found on our website, must be submitted by the County Commission.

Congress allocated $6,498,674 to Alabama, and the Secretary of State’s Office matched this funding 20% ($1,299,734), increasing the total funds available to Alabama counties to $7,798,408.

Additional funds have been set aside to reimburse Absentee Election Managers for increased costs resulting from the lengthened voting period as well as poll workers for added duties on Election Day.

For complete transparency, reports of state spending will be submitted to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

 

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