The Nebraska State Bar Association, Nebraska Board of Public Accountancy and Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants Society have partnered with the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office to ensure a sufficient number of poll workers are available for the May 12 primary election.

“I have put out a call to Nebraska’s attorneys and CPAs to help serve as poll workers at the May 12 primary,” Secretary of State Robert B. Evnen said.  “I am recruiting poll workers for the May primary to support counties in their efforts to adequately staff all polling locations with poll workers who are not in the high risk category for COVID-19.”

Many lawyers have traditionally served at polling sites, Evnen said, and it’s a natural activity for certified public accountants who want to serve their communities, too.

 “Although a record number of Nebraska’s voters have requested early ballots, there will be an opportunity for voters to vote at the polls if they wish to do so,” Evnen said.

Attorneys and CPAs who serve as poll workers will receive 1.5 hours of free continuing education credits after from the election training. To receive credit, tell the election commissioner or county clerk you are an attorney or CPA at registration.

“Under normal circumstances, most election volunteers are senior citizens – a high risk population for COVID-19,” said Steve Mattoon, president of the Nebraska State Bar Association. “Historically, many lawyers have been called upon to serve as poll workers, particularly to assist sites with addressing the interpretation of eligibility questions as they arise.”