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November 5, 2024, General Election: Calendar of Events

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Overview

The following calendar is intended to serve as a general reference for candidates running for office in Sonoma County in the November 5, 2024, General Election. It is distributed with the understanding that the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters Office is not guaranteeing all the information is correct or rendering legal advice. The calendar does not have the force or effect of law, regulation, or rule. In the case of a conflict, the law, regulation, or rule shall take precedence.

Upcoming Sonoma County Holidays

A list of official holidays recognized by the County of Sonoma in the upcoming months is shown below. Please note that these holidays may not be the same as those recognized by other counties, the Secretary of State’s Office, or the federal government.

   Date    County Holiday
September 2 Labor Day
November 11 Veterans Day
November 28 Thanksgiving Day
November 29 Day After Thanksgiving
December 25 Christmas Day
January 1, 2025 New Year's Day
January 20, 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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Events

Note: Assume any usage of the term “Registrar of Voters” is synonymous with “Sonoma County Registrar of Voters” and that all times are in Pacific Standard Time (PST).

Dates Variable

Registrar of Voters (Ongoing Until E-88)

LOCAL MEASURE LETTER ASSIGNMENTS

Local measure letters are assigned alphabetically in the order they are filed at the Registrar of Voters Office. The deadline to file county, school, city/town, and special district measures is E-88 (August 9, 2024).

  • ▶ Education Code § 5322; Elections Code §§ 10402, 10403, 13116

Candidates (Before Raising Any Money)

CANDIDATE INTENTION STATEMENT (FORM 501)

Prior to the solicitation or receipt of any contribution or loan, or the expenditure of any personal funds, any individual who intends to be a candidate for an elective state office shall file with the Secretary of State’s Office an original of the Candidate Intention Statement (Form 501). Similarly, prior to the solicitation or receipt of any contribution or loan, or the expenditure of any personal funds, any individual who intends to be a candidate for any other non-federal office shall file the Candidate Intention Statement (Form 501) with the same filing officer with whom the original campaign statements are required to be filed. See the Campaign Disclosure Requirements section of the Campaign Guide for more information on filing this form.

  • ▶ FPPC Campaign Disclosure Manual 2, Chapter 1; Government Code § 85200

Candidates (Before $2,000 or More Is Raised)

CAMPAIGN BANK ACCOUNT/STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION (FORM 410)

Upon the filing of the Candidate Intention Statement (Form 501), any candidate who raises contributions of $2,000 or more in a calendar year shall establish a campaign account at an office of a financial institution located in the state. Personal funds used to pay filing or candidate statement fees are not counted toward the $2,000 threshold. The candidate shall then file an original Statement of Organization (Form 410) with the Secretary of State and a copy with the local filing officer within 10 days. See the Campaign Disclosure Requirements section of the Campaign Guide for more information on filing this form.

  • ▶ FPPC Campaign Disclosure Manual 2, Chapter 1; Government Code §§ 84101, 85201

Committees (Within 10 Days of Making an Independent Expenditure of $1,000 or More to Support or Oppose a Single Candidate or Ballot Measure)

VERIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES (FORM 462)

If a committee makes an independent expenditure of $1,000 or more in a calendar year to support or oppose a single candidate or single ballot measure, the committee must email the Fair Political Practices Commission a Verification of Independent Expenditures (Form 462) within ten days. This form is used to identify an individual responsible for ensuring that the campaign committee’s independent expenditures are not coordinated with the listed candidate or measure committee (or opponent), and that the committee will report all contributions and reimbursements as required by law.

  • ▶ FPPC Campaign Disclosure Manual 2, Chapter 10; Government Code § 84213

Individual Contributors (Within 24 Hours of Making an Independent Expenditure of $1,000 or More in Support or in Opposition to a County Candidate)

VERIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES

Any person who makes independent expenditures in support of or in opposition to a county candidate which accumulate to one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or more during an election cycle shall notify the Registrar of Voters Office and all candidates running for the same seat – by telegram, facsimile, or by any other electronic means accepted by the Registrar of Voters Office – within twenty-four (24) hours each time such an expenditure is made.

  • ▶ Sonoma County Ordinance Number 5231 §2, 2000

June 10, 2024

Governor (E-148)

GOVERNOR'S PROCLAMATION

By this date the Governor shall issue a proclamation, under his or her hand and the Great Seal of the State, and shall state the time of the election and the offices, if any, to be filled. Copies of the proclamation shall be transmitted to the board of supervisors of each county.

  • ▶ Elections Code § §12000

June 27, 2024

Secretary of State (E-131)

LEGISLATIVE STATEWIDE BALLOT MEASURES

Last day for the Legislature to adopt a constitutional amendment, bond measure, or other legislative measure. Every constitutional amendment, bond measure, or other legislative measure submitted to the people by the Legislature shall appear on the ballot of the first statewide election occurring at least 131 days after the adoption of the proposal by the Legislature.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 9040

June 28, 2024

County Superintendent of Schools (E-130)

SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSOLIDATIONS

Last day for the County Superintendent of Schools to notify the governing boards of all school and community college districts under his or her jurisdiction in writing that a consolidated election is required to be held.

  • ▶ Education Code §§ 5523, 5340

July 1 to July 15, 2024

City/Town Clerks; Registrar of Voters (E-127 to E-113)

NOTICE OF ELECTION FOR CITY/TOWN OFFICES

The City/Town Clerk (or the Registrar of Voters Office on behalf of the city/town) shall publish a notice of election one time between these dates. The notice shall include the date and time of the election and the offices to be filled, specifying full term or short term, as the case may be. The notice shall also specify the conditions for appointment pursuant to E.C. §10229 (insufficient nominee provisions).

The notice of election shall be consolidated with the notice of measure(s) to be voted on for each municipal measure that has been placed on the ballot so far.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 12101, 12102, 12111

July 3, 2024

Special District Secretaries (E-125)

NOTICE OF ELECTION AND MAP OF DISTRICT BOUNDARIES

On or before the 125th day prior to the general district election, the district secretary for each special district up for election shall deliver a notice to the Registrar of Voters Office containing the elective offices of the district to be filled at the next election and whether the district or the candidate is to pay for the publication of the optional Statement of Qualifications in the County Voter Information Guide. The notice shall bear the secretary’s signature and the district’s seal.

The district secretary shall also deliver a map of the district boundaries (or, in lieu thereof, a statement indicating that there have been no changes to the boundary lines) to the Registrar of Voters Office.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 10509, 10522, 13307

Registrar of Voters (E-125)

JURISDICTIONAL BOUNDARY CHANGES

Jurisdictional boundary changes occurring less than 125 days before an election shall not be effective for purposes of that election.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 12262

July 5, 2024

School Governing Boards (E-123)

NOTICE OF ELECTION AND MAP OF DISTRICT BOUNDARIES

Whenever an election for school governing board is ordered, the governing board shall, concurrently with or after the order of election but not later than 123 prior to the date of the election, file with the County Superintendent of Schools and the Registrar of Voters Office a resolution specifying (a) the date of the election and (b) the purpose of the election. The resolution shall be known as “specifications of the election order” and shall set forth the authority for ordering the election, the authority for the specification of the election order, and the signature of the officer or the clerk of the board.

  • ▶ Education Code § 5322; Elections Code § 10400 et seq.

July 8, 2024

County Superintendent of Schools (E-120)

DELIVERY OF ELECTION ORDER AND NOTICE OF ELECTION

In the case of an election for governing board members, by this date the County Superintendent of Schools shall deliver to the Registrar of Voters Office copies of the (1) order of election (2) formal notice of election.

  • ▶ Education Code §§ 5324, 5325, 5360, 5361

School, Municipality, and Special District Governing Bodies (E-120)

POLICY REGARDING CANDIDATES’ STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

Before the nominating period opens, local agencies scheduled for election shall make the following determinations regarding publication of candidates’ optional Statements of Qualifications in the County Voter Information Guide:

  • Whether the district or candidate must pay the cost of printing the Statement of Qualifications. This decision shall not be revoked or modified after the seventh day before the opening of the nominating period.
  • If candidates are to pay for the printing of Statements, whether a payment must be made to the district prior to the filing of the nomination papers, or the district will bill the candidates after the election.
  • Whether Statements should be limited to 200 or 400 words. The estimated cost of a 400-word Statement is approximately double the estimated cost of a 200-word Statement.

A written statement of the policy with respect to charges for handling, packaging, and mailing shall be provided to each candidate with nomination papers.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 13307(a), 13307(d), 13307(f)

July 8 to August 7, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-120 to E-90)

NOTICE OF ELECTION FOR SCHOOL AND SPECIAL DISTRICT OFFICES

At least 90 and not more than 120 days before the date fixed for the general district election, the Registrar of Voters Office shall publish a notice of election once in a newspaper of general circulation published in the district. The notice shall contain the names of offices for which candidates may file to run and shall state the qualifications as required by the principal act for each office, the location where the declaration of candidacy forms may be obtained and filed, and the final day and time forms will be accepted for filing. The notice shall also state that if there are no nominees or insufficient nominees for the office and a petition for an election is not filed with the Registrar of Voters Office within the time prescribed by law, appointments will be made.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 12112

July 15 to August 9, 2024

Candidates (E-113 to E-88)

NOMINATION PERIOD

Period for filing nomination documents for school, municipal, and special district offices for the General Election. School and special district candidates must file a Declaration of Candidacy in the Registrar of Voters Office, 435 Fiscal Drive, Santa Rosa, with the exception of North Marin Water District (candidates for that special district must file at the Marin County Elections Department). Municipal candidates must obtain and file nomination documents with the city/town clerks of their city/town during regular business hours as posted.

School and special district candidates may obtain forms during regular work hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Forms must be filed in person, by designated representative, or by certified mail (PO Box 11485, Santa Rosa, CA 95406-1485) received no later than 5 p.m. on the final filing date. Candidates who do not appear in person to file nomination documents bear the responsibility of errors or omissions which could affect their candidacy. No candidate shall withdraw his/her Declaration of Candidacy after 5 p.m. on the 88th day before the date of the election except as provided below.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 10220 et seq., § 10407, §§ 10510 et seq.; Government Code § 87201

Candidates for U.S. Representative, State Senator, and State Assembly (E-113 to E-88)

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

The following candidates may submit a 250–word Statement of Qualifications to be printed in the County Voter Information Guide. The statement will be printed at the candidate’s expense and may not make any reference to any opponent.

  • A candidate for U.S. Representative whose district is in the County
  • A candidate for State Senator or Member of the State Assembly whose district is in the County and who accept the voluntary expenditure limits (see Form 501)

Once filed, the statement may be withdrawn (but not changed) until 5 p.m. on the next regular business day following the close of nominations. All statements remain confidential until the close of the nomination (or extended nomination) period.

Any candidate in an election who knowingly makes a false statement of a material fact in a candidate’s statement prepared pursuant to Elections Code § 13307, with the intent to mislead voters, is punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 13307 et seq., 18351; Government Code § 85601

Candidates for School, Municipal, and Special District Offices (E-113 to E-88)

STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Any candidate for a school, municipal, or special district office may submit a 200-word Statement of Qualifications to be printed in the County Voter Information Guide at the time their nomination documents are filed. The statement will be printed at the candidate’s expense (unless the district has agreed to cover the cost) and may not make any reference to any opponent.

Once filed, the statement may be withdrawn (but not changed) until 5 p.m. on the next regular business day following the close of nominations. All statements remain confidential until the close of the nomination (or extended nomination) period.

Any candidate in an election who knowingly makes a false statement of a material fact in a candidate’s statement prepared pursuant to Elections Code § 13307, with the intent to mislead voters, is punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 13307 et seq., 18351

Candidates for Non-Federal Offices (E-113 to E-88)

CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS

Any candidate for non-federal office who does not anticipate spending or receiving $2,000 or more in a calendar year may file an Officeholder and Candidate Campaign Statement – Short Form (Form 470), which does not require detailed information concerning receipts and expenditures.

Any candidate who raises contributions of $2,000 or more in a calendar year must open a bank account and submit a Statement of Organization (Form 410). For more details, refer to the CAMPAIGN BANK ACCOUNT/STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION (FORM 410) entry in the “Dates Variable” section of this Calendar of Events.

Any candidate who has already filed a Form 470 because they did not originally plan receive $2,000 or more in a calendar year but whose plans change and now does intend to receive $2,000 or more in a calendar year shall do the following:

  1. Establish a campaign account before the $2,000 expenditure threshold is reached.
  2. Complete and send an original Statement of Organization (Form 410) to the Secretary of State’s Office and file a copy with the candidate’s local filing officer.
  3. Complete and send an original Officeholder and Candidate Campaign Statement – Short Form (Form 470) Supplement to the Secretary of State’s Office, the Registrar of Voters Office, and each other candidate seeking the same office. This notice is required to be filed within 48 hours of receiving or making contributions or expenditures of $2,000 or more.
  • ▶ FPPC Campaign Disclosure Manual 2, Chapter 1; Government Code §§ 84101 et seq., 84206, 85201

Candidates for Non-Federal Offices (E-113 to E-88)

STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS (FORM 700)

Any candidate for non-federal office must file a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) no later than the final filing date for the Declaration of Candidacy if it is required by the Conflict of Interest Code for the jurisdiction or by state law. This statement shall not be required if the candidate has filed, within 60 days prior to the filing of his or her Declaration of Candidacy, a statement for the same jurisdiction.

  • ▶ Government Code §§ 87200 et seq., 87302.3, 87500

Candidates for Non-Federal Offices; Registrar of Voters (E-113 to E-88)

CODE OF FAIR CAMPAIGN PRACTICES

At the time a candidate is issued their Declaration of Candidacy, nomination papers, or any document evidencing an intention to be a candidate for public office, the elections official shall issue a copy of the Code of Fair Campaign Practices and the provisions of Elections Code §§ 20440 et seq. The official shall inform each candidate for public office that signing the Code of Fair Campaign Practices is voluntary. Forms so filed shall be retained for public viewing until 30 days after the election.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 20400 et seq.

July 31, 2024

Candidates/Committees for Non-Federal Offices (Date Fixed by Law)

SEMI-ANNUAL CAMPAIGN STATEMENTS DUE

All candidates and committees filing campaign finance statements in conjunction with the November 5, 2024, General Election, shall file a semi-annual statement no later than July 31, 2024, for the period beginning January 1, 2024 (or from the date of last filing) and ending June 30, 2024.

  • ▶ Government Code §§ 84200, 84218

August 7 to November 5, 2024

Candidates for Non-Federal Offices (E-90 to E-Day)

90-DAY REPORTING PERIOD FOR LATE CONTRIBUTIONS & INDEPENDENT EXPENDITURES

Candidates, ballot measure committees, and recipient committees that make or receive a late contribution or loan that totals in the aggregate $1,000 or more during the 90-day election cycle before an election must report late monetary contributions within 24 hours and non-monetary contributions within 48 hours by personal delivery, fax, or guaranteed overnight service.

Committees that make independent expenditures of $1,000 or more in connection with a candidate for elective local office or a local ballot measure during the 90-day election cycle before an election must file a report by fax, guaranteed overnight delivery, personal delivery, or email with the local filing officer within 24 hours. Regular mail may not be used.

  • ▶ Government Code §§ 82036 et seq., 84203 et seq., 85204, 85309, 85500

August 9, 2024

Candidates; Registrar of Voters (E-88)

DEADLINE TO FILE OR WITHDRAW NOMINATION DOCUMENTS

All nomination documents must be filed or withdrawn no later than 5 p.m. on this date.

  • Required Documents: Declaration of Candidacy; Ballot Designation Worksheet; Statement of Economic Interests (except candidates for federal offices)
  • Optional Documents: Code of Fair Campaign Practices (except candidates for federal offices); Candidate’s Statement of Qualifications

This is also the recommended date for candidates for non-federal offices who do not intend to raise or spend $2,000 or more in connection with seeking or holding office to file the Officeholder and Candidate Campaign Statement – Short Form (Form 470).

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 8020, 8063, 8801, 10220, 10407, 13107; Government Code § 87201

Candidates (Except Those Running for President or U.S. Senator) (E-88)

DEADLINE TO FILE STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Last day any candidate for may submit a Statement of Qualifications to be printed in the County Voter Information Guide (except when offices have gone into the extended nomination period).

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 13307 et seq., 18351

Local Agency Governing Bodies (E-88)

DEADLINE TO FILE MEASURES

Whenever an election called by a district, city/town, or other political subdivision for the submission of any question, proposition or office to be filled, is to be consolidated with a statewide election, the jurisdiction calling the election shall, not later than 5 p.m. on this date, file with the Board of Supervisors, and a copy to the Registrar of Voters Office, a resolution of its governing board requesting such consolidation and setting forth the exact form of any question, proposition or office to be voted upon at such election, as it is to appear on the ballot. Measures that exceed 75 words must be abbreviated to 75 words or less to appear on the ballot. The resolution requesting the consolidation shall be adopted and filed at the same time as the ordinance, resolution or order calling the election.

  • ▶ Education Code § 5322; Elections Code §§ 9051(b), 10402, 10403, 13247

School Governing Boards (E-88)

DEADLINE TO FILE TAX RATE STATEMENT FOR SCHOOL BOND MEASURES

Last day for legislative or governing body of a jurisdiction putting a bond measure on the ballot to file a Tax Rate Statement. Tax Rate Statements shall be printed in the County Voter Information Guide for any bond issue proposed by a county, city/town, district, or other political subdivision, or by any agency, department or board thereof, the security for which constitutes a lien on the property for ad valorem taxes within the jurisdiction and the proposal for which is required to be submitted to the voters for approval.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 9400 et seq.

Registrar of Voters; City/Town Clerks (E-88)

REQUEST FOR IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS

Whenever a school, county, or special district measure qualifies for the ballot, the Registrar of Voters Office shall transmit a copy of the measure text to County Counsel, who shall prepare an impartial analysis of the measure showing the effect of the measure on existing law. The analysis shall not exceed 500 words.

Whenever a municipal measure qualifies for the ballot, the City/Town Council may direct the City/Town Clerk to transmit a copy of the measure to the City/Town Attorney. The City/Town Attorney shall prepare an impartial analysis of the measure showing the effect of the measure on existing law. The analysis shall not exceed 500 words.

Based on the time reasonably necessary to prepare and print County Voter Information Guides while allowing for the 10-calendar-day public examination period, the Registrar of Voters Office has fixed and determined that E-81 (August 16, 2024) shall be the date when all impartial analyses are due.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 9160

Registrar of Voters (E-88)

REQUEST FOR FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT FOR COUNTY MEASURES

Whenever a county measure qualifies for the ballot, the Registrar of Voters Office shall transmit a copy of the measure to the County Auditor. The Board of Supervisors may direct the County Auditor to prepare a Fiscal Impact Statement estimating any increase or decrease in revenues or cost to the county if the measure is adopted. The Fiscal Impact Statement shall not exceed 500 words.

Based on the time reasonably necessary to prepare and print County Voter Information Guides, as well as to permit the 10-day public examination period, the Registrar of Voters Office has fixed and determined that August 16, 2024 (E-81), shall be the date when all fiscal analyses are due.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 9160

Registrar of Voters (E-88)

DEADLINE TO DETERMINE REQUIRED NUMBER OF OFFICIAL BALLOT DROP BOXES AND VOTE CENTERS

By this date, the Registrar of Voters Office must calculate the number of Official Ballot Drop Boxes and Vote Centers required for the upcoming election.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 4005(a)(1)(A), 4005(a)(3)(A), 4005(a)(4)(A)

August 10 to August 14, 2024

Candidates (E-87 to E-83)

EXTENDED NOMINATION PERIOD

If an incumbent eligible to be elected for an office fails to file the required nomination documents by 5 p.m. on E-88, anyone other than the incumbent who is otherwise qualified shall have five calendar days (until 5 p.m. on the 83rd day before the election) to file for that office. This section does not apply when there is no incumbent eligible to be elected.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 8022, 8204(a), 10225, 10407, 10510, 10516

August 10 to August 19, 2024

Public; Registrar of Voters (E-87 to E-78)

PUBLIC EXAMINATION PERIOD FOR ELECTION MATERIALS DUE ON E-88

The Registrar of Voters Office shall make a copy of certain election materials due on E-88 available for public examination for a period of 10 calendar days. Such materials include candidates’ Statements of Qualifications (for offices that are not going to extension), measure full texts, and tax rate statements for bond measures. Any person may obtain a copy of the materials but a fee may be charged.

During the 10-day review period, any voter of the jurisdiction in which the election is being held, or the Registrar of Voters, may seek a writ of mandate or an injunction requiring any or all such materials to be amended or deleted. A peremptory writ of mandate or an injunction shall be issued only upon clear and convincing proof that the material in question is false, misleading, or inconsistent with the requirements set forth in the Elections Code. The issuance of the writ or injunction must also not substantially interfere with the printing or distribution of official election materials as provided by law.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 9190, 9295, 9380, 9509, 13313

August 12, 2024

Candidates for Offices Not Going Into Extension (Next Working Day After E-88)

DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Any candidate for an office that is not going to extension has until 5 p.m. on this day to withdraw their Statement of Qualifications.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 13307(a)(3)

August 14, 2024

Candidates for Offices That Went Into Extension/Registrar of Voters (E-83)

DEADLINE FOR EXTENDED NOMINATION PERIOD

All nomination documents for candidates for offices that went into extension must be filed or withdrawn no later than 5 p.m. on this date. For more details, refer to the DEADLINE TO FILE OR WITHDRAW NOMINATION DOCUMENTS entry in the “E-88” section of this Calendar of Events.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 8020, 8063, 10220, 10407, 13107; Government Code § 87201

Write-In Candidates for Superior Court Judge (E-83)

DEADLINE FOR WRITE-IN CANDIDATE FOR SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE TO FILE PETITION

In any county or judicial district in which only the incumbent filed nomination documents for the office of Superior Court Judge for the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary Election, their name shall not appear on the November 5, 2024, General Election, ballot unless a petition has been filed by this date indicating a write–in campaign will be conducted for the office. The petition must be signed by at least 0.1 percent of the registered voters qualified to vote with respect to that office, provided that the petition shall contain at least 100 signatures but need not contain more than 600 signatures.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 8203(b)

Governing Boards (E-83)

DEADLINE TO AMEND OR WITHDRAW BALLOT MEASURE

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, whenever a legislative body has ordered that a measure or proposal be submitted to the voters of any jurisdiction at a special election, the order of election shall not be amended or withdrawn after the 83rd day prior to the election.

The order of election shall be amended or withdrawn upon the filing of a resolution by the legislative body stating the specifics concerning the amendment or withdrawal. The resolution shall be filed with the elections official not later than the 83rd day prior to the election.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 9605

August 15, 2024

Candidates for Offices That Went Into Extension (Next Working Day After E-83)

DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Any candidate for an office that went into extension has until 5 p.m. on this day to withdraw their Statement of Qualifications.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 13307(a)(3)

Secretary of State; Registrar of Voters (E-82)

RANDOMIZED ALPHABET

The Secretary of State shall conduct a drawing of the alphabet to determine the order of the names of the candidates to appear on the ballot. The resulting random order of letters constitutes the alphabet for all offices other than multi-county state legislative offices. In addition, and only if applicable, the candidates’ names will be rotated.

For candidates for multi-county state legislative offices, the Registrar of Voters Office in each affected county shall conduct a randomized alphabet drawing. The result of each county’s drawing shall be used only to determine the order of the names of candidates for multi-county legislative offices within such county.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 13111, 13112

August 15 to August 24, 2024

Public; Registrar of Voters (E-82 to E-73)

PUBLIC EXAMINATION PERIOD FOR ELECTION MATERIALS DUE ON E-83

The Registrar of Voters Office shall make a copy of certain election materials due on E-83 available for public examination for a period of 10 calendar days. Such materials include candidates’ Statements of Qualification for offices that went into extension. Any person may obtain a copy of the materials but a fee may be charged.

During the 10-day review period, any voter of the jurisdiction in which the election is being held, or the Registrar of Voters Office, may seek a judicial remedy if they believe such materials contain information that is false, misleading, or inconsistent with requirements set forth in the Elections Code. For more details on this process, refer to the PUBLIC EXAMINATION PERIOD FOR ELECTION MATERIALS DUE ON E-88 entry in the “E-87 to E-78” section of this Calendar of Events.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 13313

August 16, 2024

Proponents/Opponents (E-81)

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT ARGUMENTS FOR/AGAINST LOCAL MEASURES

Based on the time reasonably necessary to prepare and print County Voter Information Guides while allowing for the 10-calendar-day public examination period, the Registrar of Voters Office has set this date as the deadline for proponents/opponents of any school, county, or special district measure to file arguments. Arguments must be filed in the Registrar of Voters Office not later than 5 p.m. on this date. (Suggested deadline for proponents/opponents of city/town measures to file arguments with the city/town clerk. Check with city/town clerk for details.)

Suggested last day for arguments for or against any municipal measure to appear on the ballot. Actual date set by the City/Town Clerk. Check with the City/Town Clerk for information regarding city/town measures.

Arguments shall not exceed 300 words and must be accompanied by a Statement of Accuracy and signed by the author(s). Forms are available from the Registrar of Voters Office (or for municipal measures, from the office of the appropriate city/town clerk). Each argument shall be titled either “Argument in Favor of Measure …” or “Argument Against Measure …” (letter designation to be filled in after assignment).

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 9162, 9163, 9282, 9286, 9315, 9316, 9501, 9502, 9600

County Counsel; City/Town Attorneys (E-81)

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS FOR LOCAL MEASURES

Based on the time reasonably necessary to prepare and print County Voter Information Guides while allowing for the 10-calendar-day public examination period, the Registrar of Voters Office has set this date as the deadline for County Counsel to transmit to an impartial analysis of each school, county, and special district measure showing the effect of the measure on existing law. (Suggested deadline for City/Town Attorney to transmit an impartial analysis of a city/town measure to the City/Town Clerk. Check with City/Town Clerk for details.)

The analysis shall be printed in the County Voter Information Guide along with the County Auditor’s Fiscal Analysis (only applicable to county measures for which such an analysis was requested by the Board of Supervisors) and arguments/rebuttals for/against the measure (if submitted). The Impartial Analysis shall not exceed 500 words.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 9160, 9280, 9313, 9500

County Auditor (E-81)

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT FOR COUNTY MEASURES

Based on the time reasonably necessary to prepare and print County Voter Information Guides while allowing for the 10-calendar-day public examination period, the Registrar of Voters Office has set this date as the deadline for the County Auditor – if so directed by the Board of Supervisors – to transmit a Fiscal Impact Statement for any county measure. This analysis/statement estimates any increase or decrease in revenues or cost to the county if the measure is adopted. The Fiscal Impact Statement (if any) shall be printed in the County Voter Information Guide along with County Counsel’s Impartial Analysis, preceding the arguments/rebuttals for/against the measure (if submitted). The Fiscal Impact Statement shall not exceed 500 words.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 9160

August 17 to August 26, 2024

Public; Registrar of Voters (E-80 to E-71)

PUBLIC EXAMINATION PERIOD FOR ELECTION MATERIALS DUE ON E-81

The Registrar of Voters Office shall make a copy of certain election materials that were due on E-81 available for public examination for a period of 10 calendar days. Such materials include tax rate statements for bond measures, impartial analyses for all measures, Fiscal Impact Statements for county measures, and arguments in favor of or against all measures. Any person may obtain a copy of the materials but a fee may be charged.

During the 10-day review period, any voter of the jurisdiction in which the election is being held, or the Registrar of Voters Office, may seek a judicial remedy if they believe such materials contain information that is false, misleading, or inconsistent with requirements set forth in the Elections Code. For more details on this process, refer to the PUBLIC EXAMINATION PERIOD FOR ELECTION MATERIALS DUE ON E-88 entry in the “E-87 to E-78” section of this Calendar of Events.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 9190, 9295, 9380, 9509

August 23, 2024

Proponents/Opponents (E-74)

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT REBUTTAL ARGUMENTS FOR LOCAL MEASURES

Based on the time reasonably necessary to prepare and print County Voter Information Guides while allowing for the 10-calendar-day public examination period, the Registrar of Voters Office has set this date as the deadline for proponents/opponents of any school, county, or special district measure to file rebuttal arguments. Rebuttals must be filed in the Registrar of Voters Office not later than 5 p.m. on this date (Suggested deadline for proponents/opponents of city/town measures to file rebuttals with the City/Town Clerk. Check with City/Town Clerk for details.)

Rebuttal arguments are only permitted if both an argument in favor and an argument against the measure were filed by E-81. Rebuttal arguments shall not exceed 250 words and must be accompanied by a Statement of Accuracy and signed by the author(s). Forms are available from the Registrar of Voters Office (or, for municipal measures, from the City/Town Clerk). Each argument shall be titled either “Rebuttal to Argument in Favor of Measure …” or “Rebuttal to Argument Against Measure …” (letter designation to be filled in after assignment).

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 9167, 9285, 9317, 9504, 9600

August 24 to September 2*, 2024

Public; Registrar of Voters (E-73 to E-64)

PUBLIC EXAMINATION PERIOD FOR ELECTION MATERIALS DUE ON E-74

The Registrar of Voters Office shall make a copy of certain election materials that were due on E-74 available for public examination for a period of 10 calendar days. Such materials include rebuttal arguments. Any person may obtain a copy of the materials but a fee may be charged.

During the 10-day review period, any voter of the jurisdiction in which the election is being held, or the Registrar of Voters Office, may seek a judicial remedy if they believe such materials contain information that is false, misleading, or inconsistent with requirements set forth in the Elections Code. For more details on this process, refer to the PUBLIC EXAMINATION PERIOD FOR ELECTION MATERIALS DUE ON E-88 entry in the “E-87 to E-78” section of this Calendar of Events.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 9190, 9295, 9380, 9509

*Since September 2, 2024, is a holiday (Labor Day), use September 3, 2024, instead.

August 29, 2024

Secretary of State; Registrar of Voters (E-68)

DEATH OF A CANDIDATE

Whenever a candidate for a special district office has filed a Declaration of Candidacy, the name of the candidate shall be printed upon the ballot unless the candidate has died and that fact has been ascertained by the Registrar of Voters Office at least 68 days before the election.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 8803, 8810

September 6, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-60)

FIRST DAY TO MAIL BALLOTS TO MILITARY AND OVERSEAS VOTERS

First date the Registrar of Voters Office may begin transmitting ballots by mail, fax, or email to active military or overseas voters.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 3105(b)(1)

September 9 to October 22, 2024

Write-In Candidates (E-57 to E-14)

WRITE-IN PERIOD

Period when nomination documents for write-in candidates may be obtained from and delivered to the Registrar of Voters Office. Each write-in candidate must file a Statement of Write-In Candidacy along with the requisite number of signatures (if any) in order to have any votes cast for them counted.

Write-in candidates for the office of Superior Court judge must have already filed a petition by E-83 indicating they intend to conduct a write-in campaign.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 8062(a)(3), 8203(b), 8600, 8601

September 21, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-45)

DEADLINE TO MAIL BALLOTS TO MILITARY AND OVERSEAS VOTERS WHO HAVE REQUESTED THEM

By this date, the Registrar of Voters Office shall transmit ballots by mail, fax, or email, to all active military or overseas voters who have requested them up until this date. Although this date falls on a Saturday, it does not get pushed back to the next business day because it is a federal deadline.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 3105(b)(1)

September 26, 2024

Candidates for Non-Federal Offices (E-40)

FIRST PREELECTION CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

Deadline for candidates, ballot measure committees, and recipient committees to file (by first class mail or personal delivery) the first preelection campaign statement covering the reporting period of July 1, 2024, through September 21, 2024 (E-45).

  • ▶ Government Code §§ 84200.5, 84200.8(a)

Candidates Non-Federal Offices (E-40)

OFFICEHOLDER AND CANDIDATE CAMPAIGN STATEMENT – SHORT FORM (FORM 470)

Deadline for candidates who expect to receive or spend less than $2,000 during the calendar year to file Officeholder and Candidate Campaign Statement – Short Form (Form 470) (if they have not already filed it with their nomination documents).

  • ▶ Government Code §§ 84200.5, 84200.8(a)

October 7, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-29)

VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS GO OUT IN THE MAIL TO ALL ACTIVE REGISTERED VOTERS

Date by which the Registrar of Voters Office must begin mailing official ballots to all active registered voters in the election The elections official shall have five days to mail a ballot to each person who registered to vote on the 29th day before the day of the election.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 3000.5, 3001, 3005

Registrar of Voters (E-29)

VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS AVAILABLE FOR PICKUP

First day voters can pick up Vote-by-Mail ballots at the Registrar of Voters Office. Vote-by-Mail ballots returned by mail are considered timely cast if they are received by the Registrar of Voters Office no later than seven days after the election and and the ballot return envelope either:

  • Is postmarked on or before Election Day, November 5, 2024 (or is time/date stamped by a bona fide private mail delivery company on or before Election Day, November 5, 2024).
  • Has no postmark or an illegible postmark but the return envelope is signed and dated by the voter on or before Election Day, November 5, 2024.

Vote-by-Mail ballots can also be dropped off at any open Vote Center or deposited at an Official Ballot Drop Box by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, 2024. If the voter is unable to return the ballot themselves, they can designate another person to do so. However, the designated person must return the ballot before the close of polls on Election Day, November 5, 2024, or within three days of receiving it from the voter (whichever time period is shorter).

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 3001, 3003, 3011, 3017, 3020, 3021

Registrar of Voters (E-29)

VOTE-BY-MAIL ENVELOPE SIGNATURE VERIFICATION CAN BEGIN

The Registrar of Voters Office may begin to process Vote-by-Mail return envelopes beginning 29 days before the election. This includes verifying each voter’s signature on the Vote-by-Mail ballot return envelope and updating voter history records.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 3019, 15101

Registrar of Voters (E-29)

VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOT PROCESSING CAN BEGIN

Any jurisdiction having the necessary computer capability may start to process Vote-by-Mail ballots on the 29th day before the election. Processing Vote-by-Mail ballots includes opening Vote-by-Mail ballot return envelopes, removing ballots, duplicating any damaged ballots, and preparing the ballots to be machine read, or machine reading them, including processing write-in votes so they can be tallied by the machine. However, under no circumstances may a vote count be accessed or released until 8 p.m. on the day of the election.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 15101(b)

October 8 to November 5, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-28 to E-Day)

OFFICIAL BALLOT DROP BOXES OPEN

Official Ballot Drop Boxes are open 24/7 from October 8, 2024, until November 5, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. Go to "Where to Vote or Drop Off Your Ballot" (coming in August 2024) or call the Registrar of Voters Office for exact locations/times.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 4005(a)(1)(A)

October 15, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-21)

DEADLINE TO MAIL COUNTY VOTER INFORMATION GUIDES

Deadline for the Registrar of Voters Office to mail County Voter Information Guides to all voters who are registered to vote on or before the 29th day before the election (excluding voters who have voluntarily opted out of receiving paper copies of such guides). Any voter who registered to vote after the 29th day before the election will be mailed a notice of the election as well as information about where they can obtain the County Voter Information Guide.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 13303, 13304, 13306

October 21, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-15)

CLOSE OF STANDARD VOTER REGISTRATION

Deadline for any qualified elector to submit a standard registration form to vote in the upcoming election. Any person who has moved, changed their name, or wishes to change their political party preference must re-register by this date. After this date, qualified electors who wish to register can still do so but must “conditionally” register and vote in person at the Registrar of Voters Office or at any Vote Center in the County.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 2102, 2115, 2116, 2152

October 22, 2024

Write-In Candidates (E-14)

DEADLINE TO FILE TO BECOME A QUALIFIED WRITE-IN CANDIDATE

Last day for individuals wishing to become qualified write-in candidates for school, municipal, and special district offices to file a Statement of Write-In Candidacy along with the requisite number of signatures for that office (if any). For school and special districts offices, the Statement of Write-In Candidacy must be filed at the Registrar of Voters Office. For municipal offices, the Statement of Write-In Candidacy must be filed at the appropriate city/town clerk's office. No filing fee is required to run as a write-in candidate. Votes for write-in candidates who have not filed by close of business on this date will not be counted.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 8601

October 22 to November 5, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-14 to E-Day)

CONDITIONAL VOTER REGISTRATION AND VOTING

Period during which qualified electors can “conditionally” register and vote if they have missed the E-15 standard registration deadline (October 21). Qualified electors must go to the Registrar of Voters Office or any open Vote Center in the county in order to register and vote conditionally. Conditional ballots must be voted on site; voters cannot take them. Each conditional voter registration and conditional ballot will be reviewed by county elections officials to verify that the individual was eligible to vote and has not already voted elsewhere. If so, the registration becomes permanent and the conditional ballot is counted.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 2170

October 24, 2024

Candidates for Non-Federal Offices (E-12)

SECOND PREELECTION CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

Deadline for candidates, ballot measure committees, and recipient committees to file (by overnight service or personal delivery but not first-class mail) the second preelection campaign statement covering the reporting period of September 22, 2024 (E-44) through October 19, 2024 (E-17).

  • ▶ Government Code §§ 84200.5, 84200.8(b)

October 26, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-10)

NOTICE OF CENTRAL COUNTING PLACE

The Registrar of Voters Office shall publish, at least 10 days before the election, in a newspaper of general circulation in the jurisdiction, a notice specifying the public place to be used to tally votes when ballots are to be counted in a central counting place.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 12109

Registrar of Voters (E-10)

MAILING NON-ENGLISH FACSIMILE BALLOTS

By this day, the county elections official shall prepare and process all requests received so far for non-English facsimile ballots from voters in select precincts.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 13400

October 26 to November 5, 2024

Voters; Registrar of Voters (E-10 to E-Day)

11-DAY VOTE CENTERS ARE OPEN

Period during which a limited number of Vote Centers are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except on Election Day, November 5, 2024, when they are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.). Go to "Where to Vote or Drop Off Your Ballot" (coming in August 2024) or call the Registrar of Voters Office for exact locations/times.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 4005(a)(4)(A)

October 29, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E-7)

LAST DAY VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS WILL BE MAILED TO VOTERS

Last day for the Registrar of Voters Office to mail out ballots. After this date, any voter may still apply in person at the Registrar of Voters Office or any open Vote Center to obtain a Vote-by-Mail ballot. Voters unable to request a ballot in person may fill out an Application to Provide Vote-by-Mail Ballot to Representative (PDF, Spanish) to have somebody else pick up the ballot on their behalf. For more details, refer to the EMERGENCY VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS entry in the “E-6 to Election Day” section of this Calendar of Events

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 3001, 3003, 3102

City/Town Clerks; Registrar of Voters (E-7)

NOTICE OF ELECTION (CITY/TOWN MEASURES)

If a municipal measure is placed on the ballot, the City/Town Clerk (or Registrar of Voters Office on behalf of the city/town) shall not less than one week before the election publish a synopsis of the measure in a newspaper of general circulation. The notice shall be titled “Measure To Be Voted On.”

  • ▶ Elections Code § 12111; Government Code § 6061

Registrar of Voters (E-7)

NOTICE OF POLLING PLACES/VOTE CENTERS

The Registrar of Voters Office shall not less than one week before the election publish a notice containing the list of Vote Centers in a newspaper of general circulation.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 12105

October 30 to November 5, 2024

Voters; Registrar of Voters (E-6 to Election Day)

EMERGENCY VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS

Period during which a voter may fill out an application to have an emergency Vote-by-Mail ballot picked up and delivered to them by somebody else if they meet both of the following two conditions:

  1. They do not have (or never received) the original Vote-by-Mail ballot that was mailed to them.
  2. They are unable to go to a Vote Center due to an unexpected illness, handicap, or absence.

In these cases, the voter may designate an authorized representative to pick up their ballot on their behalf by filling out the Application to Provide Vote-by-Mail Ballot to Representative (PDF, Spanish). The representative must take the application along with them and go to the Registrar of Voters Office to pick up the ballot. This service is not offered at Vote Centers!

  • ▶ Elections Code § 3021

November 2 to November 5, 2024

Voters; Registrar of Voters (E-3 to Election Day)

4-DAY VOTE CENTERS OPEN

Period during which numerous additional Vote Centers (on top of the 11-Day Vote Centers) are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except on Election Day, November 5, 2024, when they are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.). Go to "Where to Vote or Drop Off Your Ballot" (coming in August 2024) or call the Registrar of Voters Office for exact locations/times.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 4005 (a)(4)(B)

November 5, 2024

Voters; Registrar of Voters (Election Day)

ELECTION DAY

Both 11-day and 4-day Vote Centers are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Vote-by-Mail ballots may be returned in person or by a designated person not later than 8 p.m. either to the Registrar of Voters Office, any Vote Center in the State, or any Official Ballot Drop Box in the State. Go to "Where to Vote or Drop Off Your Ballot" (coming in August 2024) or call the Registrar of Voters Office for exact locations/times.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 4005(a), 3017, 3020, 3021, 10541, 14212

Voters; Registrar of Voters (Election Day)

DEADLINE FOR VOTERS TO MAIL VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS

Vote-by-Mail ballots must be returned in the mail and postmarked by this date and received within seven days in order to be counted.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 4005(a)

Registrar of Voters (Election Day)

OFFICIAL BALLOT DROP BOXES CLOSE

Official Ballot Drop Boxes are closed and locked by elections staff at 8:00 p.m.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 4005(a)(1)(A)

November 7, 2024

Registrar of Voters (E+2)

DEADLINE TO COMMENCE OFFICIAL CANVASS

No later than the Thursday following the election, the Registrar of Voters Office shall commence the official canvass of votes cast. The canvass shall be open to the public and, for state or statewide elections, shall result in a report of results to the Secretary of State. The canvass shall be continued daily (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays excepted) for not less than six hours each day until completed.

During the official canvass of every election in which a voting system is used, the Registrar of Voters Office shall conduct a public manual tally of the ballots tabulated by those devices, including Vote-by-Mail ballots.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 335.5, 362, 15301, 15360

November 12, 2024

Voters; Registrar of Voters (E+7)

DEADLINE TO RECEIVE VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOTS POSTMARKED ON/BEFORE ELECTION DAY

Vote-by-Mail ballots are considered timely cast if they are received by the Registrar of Voters Office no later than seven days after the election and either:

  • The ballot is postmarked on or before Election Day, November 5, 2024 (or is time/date stamped by a bona fide private mail delivery company on or before Election Day, November 5, 2024).
  • The ballot has no postmark (or the postmark is illegible) but the return envelope is signed and dated by the voter on or before Election Day, November 5, 2024.
  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 3011, 3020(b)

December 5, 2024

Registrar of Voters; Governing Bodies (E+30)

COMPLETION OF CANVASS

The Registrar of Voters Office shall prepare a certified statement of the results of the election and submit it to each local governing body participating in the election within 30 days of the election.

Upon receipt of the certified statement of the results of the election from the Registrar of Voters Office, the governing body shall declare elected or nominated to each office voted on at each election under its jurisdiction the person(s) having the highest number of votes for that office. The governing board shall also declare the results of each election under its jurisdiction as to each measure voted on at the election.

The Registrar of Voters Office shall make out and deliver to each person elected or nominated, as declared by the governing body, except those elected to a central committee, a certificate of election or nomination, signed and authenticated by the Registrar of Voters Office.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 15372, 15400, 15401

December 7, 2024

Secretary of State (E+32)

CERTIFICATES OF ELECTION (PRESIDENTIAL ELECTORS)

Last day for the Secretary of State to analyze the votes given for Presidential Electors and certify to the Governor the names of the proper number of persons having the highest number of votes. The Secretary of State shall issue and transmit to each Presidential Elector a certificate of election.

  • ▶ Elections Code § 15505

December 13, 2024

Secretary of State (E+38)

STATEMENT OF THE VOTE

Last day for the Secretary of State to compile results from all counties and issue Certificates of Nomination or Election to successful candidates for United States Senator, United States Representative in Congress, State Senator, and Member of the State Assembly.

  • ▶ Elections Code §§ 8147, 15501, 15504

January 31, 2025

Candidates/Committees for Non-Federal Offices (Date Fixed by Law)

SEMI-ANNUAL CAMPAIGN STATEMENT DUE

All candidates and committees filing campaign finance statements in conjunction with the November 5, 2024, Presidential Primary Election, shall file a semi-annual statement no later than July 31, 2024, for the period beginning July 1, 2024 (or from the date of last filing) and ending December 31, 2024

  • ▶ Government Code §§ 84200, 84218
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