Senate OKs bill to make sure voters can use public schools

Legislation making sure public schools are available for voting during elections is heading to the governor.

The Senate voted 22-12 Tuesday to approve the legislation backers say is needed to make sure voters have someplace to vote and that lines aren’t overly long, leading to voter suppression.

Those opposed to the legislation say it puts school children at risk by forcing schools to be open to voters for elections.

Officials say public schools make up about 28 percent of the polling places throughout the state and are accessible for people with disabilities.

Backers say public schools are the only possible polling locations in some areas.

Backers also say the legislation is designed to give schools flexibility and can take appropriate precautions.

The bill passed the House 61-7 earlier this month.