A ballot measure that would bar counties from establishing voting centers passed a state Senate committee on Monday.
County boards of supervisors would be required to create voting precincts before each election.
While voting centers can be used by all registered voters in a county, precincts are areas with clear boundaries.
This measure would limit precincts to 1,000 registered voters with one voting location each.
And it would bar counties from establishing on-site early voting locations.
Supporters say it would let people vote closer to home.
"It is important for the voter to be engaged, and I would submit to you that precinct voting enables you to vote more close to home than a voting center," Republican Sen. Wendy Rogers said.
But opponents like Democratic Sen. Priya Sundareshan say it would create vast administrative challenges. For example, Maricopa County could have about 2,500 precincts.
“That leads to voter suppression. Moreover you’re moving away from mail in ballots and early voting. And I know we heard a concern raised about long lines," Sundareshan said.
If it passes the Republican-controlled Legislature, the measure will be sent to voters in November.
