Connecticut House Bill HB05749

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/11
• Refer: 1/21/11

Caption

An Act Requiring That Towns Have Enough Ballots Printed.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05749 signifies a notable shift in how towns prepare for elections. By mandating that towns account for the highest turnout, this bill aims to alleviate potential shortages that can disenfranchise voters. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and allocation of resources in the election process, ultimately aiming to improve voter accessibility and experience on election day.

Summary

House Bill 05749 aims to legislate that towns must ensure an adequate supply of ballots for elections, specifically requiring that they print enough ballots based on the highest voter turnout year, along with an additional ten percent. This initiative seeks to address the recurrent issue of insufficient ballots on election day, which has previously led to confusion, frustration, and barriers to voting for constituents.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 05749 seeks to bolster the integrity and efficiency of the election process in Connecticut by ensuring that ballot availability does not hinder participation. By mandating preparation measures, it serves as a proactive approach in addressing long-standing challenges associated with voter turnout and election day logistics.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly concerning its financial implications for towns tasked with printing additional ballots. Some local governments may argue that the requirement could lead to increased costs, especially in smaller towns with limited budgets. Additionally, this legislation may provoke discussions on whether the proposed margins for additional ballots are sufficient to cover unexpected turnout spikes.