Colorado House Bill HB1145

Colorado 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Failed: 2/12/24
• Refer: 1/29/24

Caption

Modify Voter Registration Page on Secretary of State Website

Impact

The bill's requirement that every registered elector access their voter registration at least once per election cycle is aimed at ensuring that voting preferences and addresses are current. This move is not only intended to enhance voter engagement but also to potentially reduce unnecessary mailing of ballots, which comes with a cost to taxpayers. The Secretary of State must provide written notice of these new requirements in public places and through media outlets, ensuring broad awareness among voters. Moreover, the bill stipulates that if a voter fails to make their preferences known, they will be presumed to have opted for in-person voting, eliminating the chance of receiving a mail ballot.

Summary

House Bill 1145, titled 'Modify Voter Registration Page on Secretary of State Website', introduces significant modifications to how voters in Colorado will manage their voter registration on the state's official website. By July 1, 2024, the Secretary of State is mandated to provide features on the voter registration page for registered electors to confirm their mailing address, indicate their preference for receiving a mail ballot or voting in person, and select a political party for primary elections. The bill establishes that the default choice for registered electors will be to vote in person, aiming to encourage direct participation in the electoral process.

Contention

Debate over HB 1145 could center on its implications for voter access and participation. While proponents argue it will streamline the voting process and save taxpayer funds by reducing the number of mail ballots sent to voters, opponents may criticize it for potentially disenfranchising those who prefer or depend on mail-in ballots, especially in rural or underserved communities. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the imposition of requirements upon voters to log in to their registrations, which could present challenges for less tech-savvy individuals or those without access to reliable internet. The requirement that half of any taxpayer cost savings from reduced mail ballots is directed toward programs combatting food insecurity among children may also serve as a point of contention, raising questions about the prioritization of funds and the effectiveness of such programs.