County boards of education: elections: consolidation.

Senator Umberg's proposal to consolidate county board of education elections with statewide general elections would establish a uniform election schedule across California beginning January 1, 2026. The measure requires all county boards of education to conduct their elections concurrent with statewide general elections, departing from the current system that allows varying election dates.

The legislation outlines procedures for implementing this change, including extending terms for incumbent board members to align with the new schedule. County committees on school district organization would determine how to stagger board member terms to maintain continuity of governance. The bill requires boards of supervisors to approve consolidation resolutions within 60 days of submission, provided local election systems can accommodate the changes.

Under the measure, county election officials must notify registered voters of approved consolidations by mail, with costs borne by the school districts. The bill classifies these new requirements as a state-mandated local program, making local agencies eligible for state reimbursement of associated costs pending determination by the Commission on State Mandates.