Press Release

EL CENTRO, CA — Imperial County has taken a significant step toward adopting the Voter’s Choice Act (VCA), a modernized election model aimed at increasing voter accessibility, flexibility, and participation. On June 10, 2025, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors approved the use of Local Assistance Tribal Consistency Fund (LATCF) grant funds to support the infrastructure needed for Vote Centers and other VCA-related resources.

Imperial County is set to become the 30th county in California to adopt the Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) voting model. Originally introduced by Senator Ben Allen in 2017 and piloted in five counties the following year, the VCA has steadily expanded under the leadership of Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D. Today, it serves more than 17 million registered voters across the state—offering them more days and more ways to cast their ballots.

While the County is not yet officially conducting elections under the VCA, this approval enables the Registrar of Voters (ROV) to begin implementing the necessary equipment, supplies, and community engagement efforts required to transition from traditional polling places to a Vote Center model. The VCA will be implemented in time for the June 2026 Primary Election.

Starting with the upcoming election, Imperial County voters will benefit from this flexible model. They’ll be able to vote in person for up to 10 days before Election Day, drop off their ballots at secure drop boxes starting 28 days before the election, or return their ballots by mail anytime up to and including Election Day.

“We appreciate the community’s interest in this important transition,” said Linsey Dale, Imperial County Registrar of Voters. “It’s critical to note that the draft Election Administration Plan (EAP) has not yet been finalized. Over the coming months, we will be engaging the community through stakeholder consultations, public workshops, and a formal comment period before the final EAP is submitted for approval.”

Under the VCA model, all active registered voters will receive a Vote-by-Mail ballot and have the option to vote in person at any Vote Center in the County. Vote Centers offer extended hours, same-day voter registration, accessible voting equipment, and multilingual assistance.

The draft EAP, which outlines proposed Vote Center and Ballot Drop Box locations, is currently available for public review. Community members—especially those representing seniors, people with disabilities, and Spanish-speaking residents—are encouraged to provide feedback and attend upcoming consultation meetings.

The County's VCA transition will also include robust bilingual outreach and accessibility improvements to ensure all eligible voters are informed and empowered to participate in upcoming elections.

To view the draft Election Administration Plan or request information in accessible formats, visit www.Elections.ImperialCounty.org or contact the Registrar of Voters at (442) 265-1060 or VoterSupport@co.imperial.ca.us.