Attorney General Phil Weiser has issued a public advisory to remind residents of Colorado about their rights and the legal protections in place for voters and polling centers as the 2024 election nears. This updated advisory replaces one from 2022, incorporating new legislative changes from Senate Bills 23-276 and 24-131.
The advisory emphasizes the importance of a secure and accessible voting process in Colorado. It provides guidance on what constitutes voter intimidation and details penalties for violations, which can include fines and imprisonment.
"Colorado’s democracy is built on the right of every eligible voter to cast their ballot safely and freely, without fear or intimidation," said Weiser. "We will not tolerate any attempts to undermine the integrity of our elections, and those who seek to intimidate voters or disrupt poll centers will be held accountable."
Key points from the advisory include:
- Voter intimidation is illegal under Colorado law. It includes threatening, harassing, or coercing voters to influence their decision to vote or refrain from voting. Violations can result in fines up to $1,000, imprisonment up to 364 days, or both.
- Harassment near polling places is prohibited. Campaigning or aggressively questioning voters about their citizenship, age, or voting intentions within 100 feet of a polling center or ballot drop box is unlawful.
- Firearms are banned within 100 feet of polling locations or ballot drop boxes during election day or voting periods. The new law extends this prohibition to concealed firearms as well. Exceptions exist for individuals on private property, uniformed security guards, and peace officers.
- Only certified poll watchers are allowed at polling places. They must be officially certified and cannot interfere with or intimidate voters.
Residents are encouraged to report any instances of voter intimidation by contacting local law enforcement agencies, county clerks, recorders, or the Colorado Attorney General’s Office at ag@coag.gov or (720) 508-6000. In emergencies, calling 911 is advised.