Connecticut Senate Bill SB00540

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/19
• Refer: 1/24/19

Caption

An Act Placing The State Elections Enforcement Commission Within The Office Of The Secretary Of The State.

Impact

The bill aims to amend specific chapters of the general statutes related to governmental operations, particularly addressing the framework for electoral oversight. By positioning the SEEC within the Office of the Secretary of the State, the bill could streamline processes related to election enforcement, ultimately leading to a more cohesive approach to election management and accountability in the state. This change may also bring about more uniform practices and policies across various electoral matters.

Summary

SB00540 is a legislative proposal introduced in the General Assembly which seeks to integrate the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC) into the Office of the Secretary of the State. The rationale behind this move is to enhance the administrative efficiency and effectiveness of the SEEC by placing it under the authority of an established office that has the resources and oversight needed for effective operations. This consolidation is expected to facilitate better coordination between the elections administration and enforcement aspects.

Contention

While the bill is geared towards improving the electoral process, it may raise questions regarding oversight responsibilities and the potential impact on the autonomy of the SEEC. Concerns could emerge around whether this consolidation might compromise the SEEC's ability to operate independently and impartially. Opponents may argue that it could lead to politicization of election enforcement, as the Secretary of the State, an elected official, would gain direct control over the SEEC. Detractors might emphasize the need to maintain a distinct and autonomous body to ensure unbiased election monitoring and enforcement.