Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00255

Introduced
2/24/16  
Introduced
2/24/16  
Refer
2/24/16  
Refer
2/24/16  
Report Pass
3/21/16  
Refer
4/4/16  
Refer
4/4/16  
Report Pass
4/11/16  
Engrossed
4/27/16  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Applicability And Provision Of Training For Registrars Of Voters.

Impact

The introduction of SB00255 has significant implications for state election laws, specifically in enhancing the qualifications and training of those responsible for voter registration and election management. By creating a framework for the certification and continual education of registrars, the bill promotes a more competent electorate management system. This effort is anticipated to bolster public confidence in the electoral process, as certified registrars should provide more consistent and knowledgeable oversight during elections.

Summary

SB00255, titled 'An Act Concerning The Applicability And Provision Of Training For Registrars Of Voters,' aims to establish a standardized program for the certification and ongoing training of registrars of voters in Connecticut. The bill mandates that all registrars in office prior to July 1, 2015, achieve certification by July 1, 2017, while newly elected registrars must meet these standards within their respective terms. Additionally, registrars are required to complete at least eight hours of training annually to maintain their certification, ensuring they are updated on the latest electoral laws and procedures.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00255 appears to be largely supportive among legislative members, evidenced by its unanimous roll call vote in the Senate, suggesting bipartisan agreement on the necessity of well-trained election officials. Advocates view this bill as a step forward in ensuring integrity and competence within the electoral framework. However, some concerns were raised regarding the implementation costs for municipalities, which could impact local budgets when they bear the training expenses for registrars.

Contention

While the reception of SB00255 has been generally favorable, some points of contention include concerns over the financial implications for municipalities that will need to fund the training of registrars. There are discussions around whether the state should provide additional support to ease these financial burdens, ensuring compliance does not lead to unintended negative consequences for local governance. Nonetheless, the overarching goal of improving the standards through structured training and certification remains a critical focus of the legislative discourse.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05498

An Act Concerning Election Security And Transparency, The Counting Of Absentee Ballots, Absentee Voting For Certain Patients Of Nursing Homes, Security Of Certain Election Workers, State Elections Enforcement Commission Complaints, Ballots Made Available In Languages Other Than English And Various Other Revisions Related To Election Administration.

CT HB05290

An Act Concerning Various Revisions To The Public Health Statutes.

CT HB05524

An Act Authorizing And Adjusting Bonds Of The State And Concerning Provisions Related To State And Municipal Tax Administration, General Government And School Building Projects.

CT HB05523

An Act Concerning Allocations Of Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds And Provisions Related To General Government, Human Services, Education And The Biennium Ending June 30, 2025.

CT HB05170

An Act Concerning Training For Members And Employees Of Inland Wetlands Agencies.

CT SB00386

An Act Concerning Designation Of Polling Places, Early Voting And Regional Election Advisors.

CT SB00258

An Act Concerning The Legislative Commissioners' Recommendations For Minor And Technical Revisions To The Government Administration And Elections Statutes.

CT SB00428

An Act Concerning Business Registrations Filed With The Secretary Of The State.

CT HB05308

An Act Concerning Absentee Voting For Certain Patients Of Nursing Homes.

CT SB00441

An Act Concerning Election Administration Oversight.

Similar Bills

TX SB1340

Relating to voter qualification and registration.

CT SB01051

An Act Strengthening The State's Elections.

CT SB01163

An Act Concerning Qualifications Of Individuals Appointed To Serve As Moderators At Elections And Primaries.

CT HB05300

An Act Concerning The Regional Consolidation Of Certain Functions Of Election Administration.

MS SB2410

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2022; enact.

MS SB2497

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2023; enact.

MS SB2498

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2023; enact.

CT SB00939

An Act Concerning Revisions To Elections Related Statutes.