Connecticut House Bill HB05111

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/19
• Refer: 1/10/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Day Of Primaries For Municipal Elections.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would notably affect the timeline of electoral processes in Connecticut. It is anticipated that moving primaries to August will lead to increased voter turnout by allowing for a more accessible date for many residents. The adjustments could enable municipalities to better prepare for elections, as it provides additional time for electoral activities after the primaries have concluded. This shift in schedule may also have logistical implications for candidates and local election officials as they plan their campaign timelines and voter outreach efforts.

Summary

House Bill 05111 proposes an amendment to title 9 of the general statutes, specifically altering the scheduling of primaries for municipal elections. The bill seeks to move the date of these primaries from the fifty-sixth day preceding the election to the second Tuesday in August. The intention behind this change is to provide a more standardized and potentially more convenient schedule for voters and election administrators alike. By shifting the primary date, the bill aims to facilitate better participation among voters in municipal elections, ensuring that these important local contests are not overshadowed by other events or timelines.

Contention

While the proposed changes mainly focus on logistical improvements, there may be areas of contention among stakeholders. Supporters of the bill argue that it will enhance voter engagement and streamline the electoral process, while opponents may express concerns about the appropriateness of the new timing for specific demographics or local customs that could be disrupted by the change. Additionally, there could be debates surrounding the impact on budgetary considerations for election administration, as well as the necessity of public awareness and education regarding the new primary schedule.