IMPERIAL COUNTY

Registrar of Voters


California Voter’s Choice Act

Established in 2016, the California’s Voter’s Choice Act modernizes elections by giving voters more flexibility and

convenience. Under this model, voters choose how, when, and where to cast their ballots through:

  • Mailing every registered voter a ballot
  • Expanding in-person early voting
  • Allowing voters to cast a ballot at any vote center within their county
  • Providing secure ballot drop boxes throughout the county

Imperial County's Transition to VCA

Imperial County has decided to begin the process of adopting the VCA election model in time for the June 2026 Primary Election. To guide this transition, the Draft Election Administration Plan (EAP) has been developed in consultation with the Elections Working Group, the Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) and the Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee.

Between the months of June through September 2025, the Registrar of Voters will host a series of community meetings and workshops, a public review and comment period, and a public hearing to adopt the EAP.

It is anticipated that the final EAP will be submitted to the California Secretary of State (SOS) for approval in September 2025.


What will Change?

Upon the adoption of the EAP, Imperial County elections will follow the VCA model starting at the June 2026 Primary Election   

     

  • All registered voters will automatically receive a Vote-by-Mail ballot 29 days before Election Day.       
  • Countywide Ballot Drop Boxes will be open for 29 days, including Election Day.       
  • Traditional polling places will be replaced by Vote Centers throughout Imperial County. Locations of Vote Centers will be determined through the EAP process.
  • 3 Vote Centers will be open for 11 days 
  • 11 Vote Centers open for 4 days, including Election Day

What is a Vote Center

Vote Centers replace traditional polling places and offer a full-service voting experience. Voters can visit any Vote Center in Imperial County to:

  • Drop off a completed Vote-by-Mail ballot
  • Vote using an accessible ballot-marking device       
  • Request a replacement ballot     
  • Register or update their voter registration and vote on the same day      
  • Get bilingual assistance

Election Administration Plan (EAP)

The Draft Election Administration

Plan outlines how the Imperial County Registrar of Voters will administer elections

under the VCA. It includes:     

  

  • Voter education and outreach efforts
  • Vote Center location selection and staffing        
  • Language and accessibility services        
  • Election security and contingency planning

The Final EAP is currently in development. Public notices and workshops, comment periods, and hearings will be posted here as they become available.



Language »