Secretary of State to Open Public Comment Period for 2025 Elections Procedures Manual

PHOENIX – The Arizona Secretary of State’s office is inviting the public to provide feedback on the draft 2025 Elections Procedures Manual (EPM). While the EPM is not subject to the Arizona Administrative Procedure Act, public input remains a valuable part of the review process.

“This manual has always been the backbone of how Arizona runs elections,” said Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes. “But in today’s environment, it carries more weight than ever. What was once a technical guide for election officials is now a document scrutinized by the public, the press, and the courts. That’s why we’re inviting every Arizonan to take a look, ask questions, and offer ideas.”

Under A.R.S. § 16-452, the Secretary of State must prescribe rules and procedures to ensure impartiality, uniformity and efficiency to Arizona’s election laws. This is done in consultation with county election officials.

The comment period will open on August 1 by 5:00 p.m., and Arizonans are encouraged to share their thoughts at: https://azsos.gov/webform/epm-public-comments

The public comment portal will close at 5:00 p.m. on August 31. The deadline to submit the 2025 Elections Procedures Manual to the Governor and Attorney General for approval is October 1.

The EPM is a critical guide that outlines how elections are conducted across Arizona’s 15 counties. It provides uniform rules and guidance to ensure secure, fair, and consistent elections for all eligible voters.

The full draft of the 2025 EPM along with a summary of key proposed changes will be posted at: https://azsos.gov/elections/about-elections/elections-procedures/epm