Connecticut Senate Bill SB00241

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/20
• Refer: 2/21/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Auditing Of Election Day Registration.

Impact

With the enactment of SB00241, the existing regulations regarding voter registration, specifically on election day, would be updated. The bill mandates the registrars of voters to follow detailed procedures for ensuring that those applying to register and vote on election day must provide adequate proof of their identity and residency. This includes the requirement for registrars to send a registration confirmation notice to newly registered electors. The bill seeks to improve the verification process and reduce instances of fraudulent registrations by establishing regulatory oversight for election day registrants.

Summary

SB00241 is an act focusing on the auditing of election day registration procedures in the context of Connecticut law. The primary aim of the bill is to ensure that the process for individuals seeking to register as electors on election day is clear, thorough, and secure. It introduces measures for the registrars of voters to designate specific locations for election day registrations and to provide the necessary facilities for processing these applications. This enhances the operational integrity of the election day registration process by requiring registrars to verify applicants against a statewide centralized voter registration system.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding SB00241 may arise from concerns regarding the potential for disenfranchisement of eligible voters who may struggle with the registration requirements, particularly students and transient populations. Critics could argue that while the bill aims to bolster the integrity of the voting process, it may unintentionally create barriers that hinder qualified individuals from exercising their right to vote. Additionally, the requirement for registrars to conduct investigations if residency cannot be verified could raise debates about the balance between ensuring election integrity and protecting voter access.