Connecticut House Bill HB06670

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/13
• Refer: 3/19/13
• Report Pass: 4/5/13
• Refer: 4/18/13
• Report Pass: 4/24/13

Caption

An Act Concerning Absentee Voting In Department Of Mental Health And Addiction Services Operated Mental Health Facilities, Applications For Absentee Ballots And Duties And Responsibilities Assigned To Moderators.

Impact

The implementation of HB 06670 is expected to positively affect state laws concerning election accessibility for individuals with mental health challenges. By modernizing the absentee voting system, the bill seeks to enhance the voting rights of patients, ensuring they have the opportunity to vote in primaries and elections. Additionally, the requirement for a collaborative plan aims to address specific logistical issues related to voting within mental health settings, thereby potentially increasing voter participation among this population.

Summary

House Bill 06670 aims to improve absentee voting processes for residents in mental health facilities operated by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. The bill establishes a framework for ensuring that patients in these facilities can participate in elections while maintaining their privacy rights. A key aspect of the legislation is that it mandates the Secretary of the State and the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services to develop a plan that facilitates this process.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 06670 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for mental health rights and accessible voting. Proponents view the bill as a significant step towards inclusion, allowing individuals in mental health facilities to exercise their democratic rights without unnecessary barriers. On the contrary, there may still be concerns regarding the practical implementation of this bill and how effectively it addresses the unique challenges faced by voters in these facilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB 06670 could arise regarding the execution of the proposed plan. Critics might raise concerns about the adequacy of the measures to guarantee privacy during the voting process and the potential risks involved in assisting individuals with their absentee ballot applications. Furthermore, ensuring that all staff members in mental health facilities are properly trained to facilitate this process responsibly may be a point of debate during implementation discussions.